You can certainly use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, however navy beans are the standard for American baked beans. The recipe can be adapted to your preference by substituting the navy beans with your desired bean variety. Keep in mind that different beans may have slightly different cooking times, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Generally, kidney beans and pinto beans require a slightly longer cooking time compared to navy beans. Consult cooking charts or recipe guidelines specific to the bean type you are using to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.