Recipe is below... but first:

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Instant Pot Baked Beans

all recipes dinner Jun 27, 2026

Instant Pot Baked Beans

Servings

8–10 servings

Total Time

1 hour (plus soaking time if soaking beans)


Ingredients

  • 1 pound (about 2 cups) dried navy beans (soaked overnight if possible)
  • 1 onion, chopped (optional but recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional but recommended)
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup molasses
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1–2 shakes black pepper
  • 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

Instructions

1. Optional sauté

For extra flavor, sauté the onion and garlic using a splash of water until softened.

If you're short on time, you can skip this step.


2. Add ingredients

Place the following into the Instant Pot:

  • Soaked navy beans
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Bell pepper
  • Brown sugar
  • Molasses
  • Vegetable broth
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Smoked paprika
  • Liquid smoke (if using)
  • Seasoned salt
  • Mustard
  • Black pepper

Do not stir in the tomato paste. Spoon it gently on top of the mixture.


3. Pressure cook

Cook on High Pressure for 45 minutes.

Allow for a 20-minute natural release, then carefully release any remaining pressure.


4. Stir and serve

Stir in the tomato paste until fully incorporated.

Serve warm.


Tips

  • Forgot to soak the beans? Increase the cook time and expect a slightly firmer texture.
  • These beans taste even better the next day.
  • Freeze leftovers for easy meals.
  • Serve with cornbread, baked potatoes, or barbecue favorites.

 

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