Name: Instant Pot Baked Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 135 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon canola oil; 1 large yellow onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 lb. great northern beans (dried); 3/4 cup tomato juice; 3/4 cup low sodium vegetable stock; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1/4 cup low sugar ketchup; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (or any other hot sauce!); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Jump to Recipe Print it

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a pot of Instant Pot Baked Beans simmering away, filling the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. I can still remember one of my first attempts at making these beans. It was a chilly fall evening, and I had friends over for a cozy dinner. I wanted to serve something hearty, and baked beans seemed like the perfect comfort food. With the Instant Pot, I could whip them up in no time, and they turned out to be the star of the meal. Everyone raved about them, and it took minimal effort on my part. The blend of flavors was just right, with the sweetness of the maple syrup and the tang of the barbecue sauce creating an irresistible dish that paired beautifully with grilled vegetables and cornbread. Now, every time I prepare Instant Pot Baked Beans, it brings back those joyful memories and adds new ones with each gathering.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
135 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
3 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Instant Pot, Cutting Board

Why This Instant Pot Baked Beans Works

Quick and Easy

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick it is. The Instant Pot reduces cooking time dramatically, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Just set it to high pressure and let it do its magic!

Comforting Flavor

The combination of great northern beans, barbecue sauce, and maple syrup creates a comforting flavor that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

Versatile Dish

Instant Pot Baked Beans are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a main dish, a side for your barbecue, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Their adaptability makes them a staple in my kitchen.

Healthy Ingredients

Using dried great northern beans means you’re getting a nutritious meal packed with fiber and protein. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Simple Clean-Up

With just one pot to clean, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Less time washing dishes means more time spent enjoying your meal and company!

Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Baked Beans

These ingredients are the backbone of the vibrant flavor in Instant Pot Baked Beans. Each plays a crucial role in contributing to the dish’s overall deliciousness. From the sweetness of maple syrup to the tangy kick of barbecue sauce, these elements come together to create a dish that’s rich and comforting.

1 tablespoon canola oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, it adds just the right amount of richness without overwhelming the flavors.
1 large yellow onion, diced: It provides a savory base that enhances the overall taste.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds depth and aroma that complements the sweetness of the beans nicely.
1/2 lb. great northern beans, dried: The star ingredient, offering a creamy texture when cooked.
3/4 cup tomato juice: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the dish.
3/4 cup low sodium vegetable stock: Infuses the beans with a rich, savory flavor while keeping it healthy.
1/2 cup barbecue sauce: Provides the signature sweet and tangy flavor.
1/4 cup low sugar ketchup: Balances out the flavors while keeping the sugar content lower.
1/4 cup maple syrup: Adds a delicious sweetness that brings the dish together.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Gives a nice bite and complexity to the flavor profile.
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (or any other hot sauce): Adds a touch of heat, adjustable to your taste.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a layer of umami that enhances the savory notes.

Recipe Directions for Instant Pot Baked Beans

Getting these Instant Pot Baked Beans ready is as easy as it sounds. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy. Follow along as I guide you through the process!

First, set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting for 15 minutes. This allows the pot to heat up, getting it ready for cooking.
Next, add the canola oil into the pot and let it heat until shimmering. This is a sign that it’s ready for the next step.
Now, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them while stirring constantly until the onions become translucent and soft, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
Measure in your dried great northern beans, tomato juice, low sodium vegetable stock, barbecue sauce, low sugar ketchup, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, Sriracha sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything until well combined—this is where the magic begins to happen.
Place the lid securely on the Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is sealed. This is crucial for achieving the high pressure needed to cook the beans perfectly.
Manually set the pot to high pressure for 2 hours. This prolonged cooking time allows the beans to soften beautifully.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 5 to 10 minutes. This gentle release helps to prevent the beans from splitting.
After that, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure until the lid can be removed safely. Be cautious of the steam!
Finally, serve the Instant Pot Baked Beans warm with your favorite barbecue dishes, and enjoy the hearty goodness!

Things Worth Knowing

Pay attention to the beans as they cook; they should be tender but not mushy. If they’re not quite there, you can always cook them a bit longer.
Letting the pressure release naturally helps enhance the flavors as the steam allows the beans to absorb all those delicious ingredients.
For a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
If you find the beans too sweet, feel free to adjust the quantities of maple syrup and barbecue sauce to your taste.

Tips and Variations

When it comes to making Instant Pot Baked Beans, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Here are some tips to elevate your dish even further:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also taste great as leftovers!
Freezing: You can freeze the baked beans in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: These baked beans go wonderfully with grilled meats, cornbread, or even as a topping for a baked potato.
Spice it Up: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Herbs: Enhance the flavor by stirring in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
Experiment: Try using different types of beans for a unique twist or add veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

How to Serve Instant Pot Baked Beans

Serving Instant Pot Baked Beans can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to make the most out of your dish:

As a Main Dish: Serve the beans on their own or with a side salad for a filling vegetarian meal.
Side Dish: Pair with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob for a classic barbecue spread.
For Breakfast: Believe it or not, baked beans make a great breakfast option! Serve them with scrambled eggs for a hearty start to your day.
At Gatherings: These beans are perfect for potlucks or family gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve with roasted squash or in the summer with fresh corn salad for a seasonal touch.

FAQ

Yes, you can use canned beans. If you opt for canned, reduce the cooking time significantly since they are already cooked. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then add the canned beans along with the other ingredients, and cook on high pressure for just 5 to 10 minutes.

If you prefer your baked beans less sweet, you can decrease the amount of maple syrup and barbecue sauce. Alternatively, you can add a splash of vinegar to balance out the sweetness without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe is already vegetarian, and it can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the barbecue sauce you use is free from animal products. Many brands offer vegan-friendly options that will work perfectly.

Instant Pot Baked Beans pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. They are great alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or even roasted vegetables. Consider serving them at barbecues or potlucks for a hearty addition to your spread.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Baked Beans are a delightful combination of sweet and savory that elevates any meal. With their comforting flavors and easy preparation, they make an ideal choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners. I encourage you to try making them and experience the joy they bring to the table!