How Many Calories in Baked Beans?

Calories in baked beans can vary depending on the specific type of beans and the recipe used to prepare them. In this article, we will explore the nutritional content of various types of baked beans, including popular canned and homemade varieties, and discuss how many calories they contain.

First, let’s define what baked beans are. Baked beans are a type of legume, typically made from navy beans, that are cooked in a sweet and savory sauce. They are often enjoyed as a side dish or as a topping for toast, but can also be incorporated into main dishes such as baked beans and frankfurters or served as a vegetarian protein source.

First, let’s take a look at the calorie content of some common types of baked beans. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a half cup (118 mL) serving of canned pork and beans contains around 130 calories. This serving size also contains 6 grams of protein, 22 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fat.

If you opt for a serving of canned vegetarian baked beans, the calorie content may be slightly lower. A half cup (118 mL) serving of vegetarian baked beans contains around 120 calories, 6 grams of protein, 22 grams of carbohydrates, and 0.5 grams of fat.

Homemade baked beans may vary in calorie content depending on the ingredients used. A half cup (118 mL) serving of homemade baked beans made with navy beans, tomato sauce, and molasses contains around 150 calories, 8 grams of protein, 27 grams of carbohydrates, and 0.5 grams of fat.

It’s worth noting that the calorie content of baked beans can increase significantly if they are served with toppings or added ingredients. For example, adding bacon or sausage to your baked beans will increase the fat and calorie content. A half cup (118 mL) serving of baked beans with two slices of bacon contains around 180 calories, 8 grams of protein, 27 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of fat.

Now, let’s look at the calorie content of some common types of baked beans:

Canned baked beans: One cup of canned baked beans, which is equivalent to around 254 grams, contains approximately 227 calories. The majority of these calories come from carbohydrates, with a single serving providing 47 grams of carbs. Canned baked beans also contain a moderate amount of protein, with around 12 grams per serving, and relatively little fat, with just 2 grams per serving.

Homemade baked beans: The calorie content of homemade baked beans can vary depending on the specific recipe used. However, a typical homemade recipe made with navy beans and a sweet sauce made from molasses or brown sugar will contain around 300-350 calories per cup. Like canned baked beans, the majority of these calories come from carbohydrates, with a single serving providing around 50-60 grams of carbs. Homemade baked beans may also contain more protein and fat than canned varieties, depending on the ingredients used in the recipe.

Vegetarian baked beans: Vegetarian baked beans are a popular option for those following a plant-based diet or looking to reduce their intake of animal protein. One cup of vegetarian baked beans, which is equivalent to around 254 grams, contains approximately 246 calories. These calories come primarily from carbohydrates, with a single serving providing around 50 grams of carbs. Vegetarian baked beans also contain a moderate amount of protein, with around 11 grams per serving, and relatively little fat, with just 2 grams per serving.

It’s important to note that the calorie content of baked beans can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. For example, adding bacon or other types of meat to the recipe will increase the calorie and fat content of the baked beans. Similarly, using a sweeter sauce or adding additional sugar to the recipe will increase the carbohydrate and calorie content.

In addition to their calorie content, baked beans are a good source of several essential nutrients. One cup of baked beans provides a significant amount of fiber, with around 16 grams per serving. They are also a good source of several minerals, including iron, potassium, and magnesium.

However, it’s important to note that baked beans are also high in sodium, with a single serving containing around 500-600 milligrams of sodium. Consuming high levels of sodium on a regular basis can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure and other health problems. It’s generally recommended to limit daily sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams or less.