Heinz Baked Beans Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to make Heinz Baked Beans from scratch, this recipe delivers that classic, comforting flavor right at home. Sweet, savory, and perfectly saucy, these homemade baked beans taste just like the iconic Heinz version—but even better. Whether served on hot buttered toast, alongside breakfast eggs, or as a hearty BBQ side, this recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t need to come from a can.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic flavor made fresh – Tastes just like Heinz but with richer, deeper notes.
• Simple pantry staples – Uses everyday ingredients like tomato sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Customizable sweetness – Adjust sugar and vinegar for your perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
• Versatile serving options – Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for grilled meats.
• Comfort in every bite – Creamy, tender beans swimming in a luscious, smoky-sweet tomato sauce.

Ingredients Needed

For the Beans (choose one option):

• Dried beans (recommended for best texture):
  • 2 cups (about 14 oz) dried navy beans or haricot beans
• OR canned beans (for quick prep):
  • 3 × 400g (14 oz) cans of navy, cannellini, or white beans, drained and rinsed

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or homemade vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup water
• 6 tbsp tomato ketchup (or British-style tomato sauce)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds a subtle tang)
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

For Thickening the Sauce:

• 8 tsp cornstarch (cornflour)
• ¼ cup cold water

How to Make Heinz Baked Beans Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beans (if using dried beans)

1. Soak: Place beans in a large bowl and cover with plenty of cold water. Let them soak for 8–24 hours. This helps soften them and shortens cooking time.
2. Simmer: Drain the beans and add to a pot of fresh water. Bring to a gentle boil, skim off any foam, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook: Partially cover and simmer for 1–1½ hours, checking after 45 minutes. The beans should be tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

(Skip this step if using canned beans.)

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Combine the base: In a large saucepan, mix together chicken stock, water, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat to blend the flavors—this should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Beans

1. Mix: Add the cooked (or canned) beans into the simmering sauce. Stir to coat each bean evenly.
2. Cook: Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the sauce reduce slightly.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

1. Mix thickener: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and cold water to form a smooth slurry.
2. Thicken: Gradually pour the slurry into the beans while stirring. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Taste and adjust: Add more salt or sugar if needed. The sauce should be glossy and rich.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm over thick slices of hot buttered toast for a classic British experience—or enjoy with eggs, sausages, or crusty artisan bread for a comforting meal any time of day.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving ideas: Try topping your baked beans with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
• Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: These beans freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Make it vegan: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable stock and use a vegan Worcestershire sauce.
• Adjust the sweetness: For a less sweet flavor, reduce brown sugar to 2 tbsp.
• Texture tip: Don’t overcook the beans in the first stage—they’ll continue softening as they simmer in the sauce.
• Flavor booster: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of mustard for an extra punch.

Conclusion

This homemade Heinz Baked Beans recipe is everything you love about the original—comforting, hearty, and deliciously saucy—but made even better in your own kitchen. It’s simple, affordable, and packed with nostalgic flavor that pairs beautifully with breakfast or as a cozy dinner side.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating below! Don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest or Facebook—we love seeing your kitchen wins.
👉 What’s your favorite way to serve baked beans—on toast or with a full English breakfast?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! Using canned beans saves time. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce. Skip the soaking and boiling steps.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your Worcestershire sauce and stock are certified gluten-free.

Can I make these beans in advance?

Yes! They taste even better the next day as the flavors develop. Reheat gently and add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

Why did my sauce turn too thick?

It’s likely reduced a bit too long or had too much cornstarch. Add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I freeze homemade baked beans?

Yes, they freeze very well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly and stir occasionally for the best texture.