A closeup of baked beans.
Doctor Up Canned Baked Beans With These Powerhouse Ingredients

NEWS

By SARA DONNELLAN
A pan of bacon

Bacon & Onion

Chopped-up bacon cooked in oil will enhance the flavor of baked beans, especially if you want a barbecue style. Level up the flavor by adding caramelized onions.
A ramekin filled with caramelized onions beside onions.
However, the caramelization process will take time. If you're in a rush, sauteed onion or onion powder will add extra fragrance, sweetness, and umami to your beans and bacon.
Hand sifting espresso powder

Espresso

Espresso powder is a great addition to baked beans. Just a pinch will add a rich bold flavor and a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness of the beans.
Chorizo in a skillet

Adobo Sauce & Chorizo

Add a few teaspoons of chipotle adobo sauce and crumbled chorizo for a Mexican twist to your baked beans, infusing a spicy and smoky flavor.