Dive into the wholesome goodness of Sugar-Free Classic Baked Beans, a healthier twist on a timeless comfort food. This recipe swaps traditional sweeteners for unsweetened apple sauce, delivering natural sweetness without compromising on flavor. Slowly baked to perfection, these tender navy beans soak up a vibrant, smoky sauce made with garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, and a tangy splash of apple cider vinegar. Prepared in an oven-safe pot, this dish combines heartiness with low-sugar simplicity, making it ideal for anyone watching their sugar intake. Perfect as a barbecue side, a cozy main, or a meal prep favorite, these baked beans are proof that classic doesn't have to mean loaded with sugar!
Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water, then place them in a large bowl. Cover with water and soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
Drain the soaked beans and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir well, cooking for about 2 minutes.
Stir in the unsweetened apple sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot, followed by the water. Stir everything together.
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Bake for about 2 hours, checking occasionally to ensure the beans remain covered with liquid. Add a bit more water if needed.
Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from the oven.
Let the baked beans sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Calories |
2018 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 38.5 g | 49% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.9 g | 30% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3003 mg | 131% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 323.7 g | 118% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 76.5 g | 273% | |
| Total Sugars | 35.8 g | ||
| Protein | 106.0 g | 212% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 807 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 27.0 mg | 150% | |
| Potassium | 7448 mg | 158% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.