BBQ Baked Beans are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their rich and smoky flavor combined with the sweetness of BBQ sauce makes them a favorite for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family gatherings. The simplicity of this recipe, using canned beans and a few key ingredients, ensures that you can whip up a delicious dish in no time. Whether you serve them alongside grilled meats or enjoy them on their own, these BBQ Baked Beans are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy cooks.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, BBQ sauce, and caramelized onions creates a mouthwatering taste.
- Versatile Side Dish: These beans pair wonderfully with various main courses, from grilled meats to veggie burgers.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, these BBQ Baked Beans will be a hit at your next potluck or barbecue.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different flavored baked beans or additional spices to suit your palate.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools on hand will make your experience smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and allows the beans to bubble nicely.
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking bacon and sautéing onions efficiently without overcrowding.
- Slotted spoon: Helps in transferring ingredients without excess grease.
- Mixing bowl: Ensures easy combining of all ingredients before baking.
Ingredients
For the Beans
- 6 strips bacon, chopped small
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 (28 oz) cans original baked beans (do not drain)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make BBQ Baked Beans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet:
1. Sauté the diced onion in the remaining bacon fat until softened and translucent.
2. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. If you’re skipping the bacon, use 1 tablespoon of oil instead.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the baked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed onions, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Stir until fully mixed.
Step 5: Bake the Beans
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly:
1. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve BBQ Baked Beans
BBQ Baked Beans are a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of meals. They are hearty enough to stand alone or pair beautifully with other flavors, making them perfect for any gathering.
With Grilled Meats
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs well with the sweetness of BBQ baked beans.
- Ribs: The rich, meaty taste of ribs is enhanced by the tangy flavor of the beans.
- Sausages: Charred sausages bring out the savory elements in the baked beans.
In a Bowl
- Solo Delight: Serve the beans in a bowl as a satisfying main course for a casual meal.
- Topped with Cheese: Add shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
As a Dip
- Bean Dip: Mash the beans slightly and serve with tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional bean dip.
- BBQ Bean Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with BBQ baked beans and your favorite toppings for a delicious appetizer.
How to Perfect BBQ Baked Beans
To make sure your BBQ Baked Beans turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality bacon and BBQ sauce for the best flavor.
- Customize Your Beans: Experiment with flavored canned baked beans to add variety and depth to your dish.
- Control the Sweetness: Adjust brown sugar to your taste; less sugar yields more savory beans.
- Add Spice: For an extra kick, mix in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños before baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the beans to sit after baking helps thicken them and meld flavors better.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Baked Beans
Pairing BBQ Baked Beans with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Cornbread: This classic Southern side adds sweetness and texture that balances well with BBQ flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and a creamy contrast to the rich beans.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is another crowd favorite that goes well alongside baked beans.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables add color and healthiness to your plate while enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy delight is always a hit, offering comfort along with the smoky sweet notes of the beans.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad brings freshness and crunch, creating a nice contrast to hearty baked beans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BBQ Baked Beans, there are common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping the Bacon – While it’s possible to make BBQ Baked Beans without bacon, skipping it entirely can lead to a less savory flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, use smoked paprika for a similar taste.
- Overcooking the Onions – Cooking the onions too long can make them mushy instead of providing a nice texture. Sauté them until they are just translucent for the best results.
- Not Using Enough BBQ Sauce – Insufficient sauce can lead to bland beans. Make sure to measure out enough BBQ sauce to enhance the overall flavor.
- Neglecting to Stir During Baking – Failing to stir halfway through baking can result in uneven heating. Be sure to mix your beans at the 30-minute mark for consistent results.
- Using Low-Quality Canned Beans – The quality of canned beans affects the final dish. Choose high-quality baked beans for better texture and flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store BBQ Baked Beans in airtight containers.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Freezing BBQ Baked Beans
- Place BBQ Baked Beans in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating BBQ Baked Beans
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans for BBQ Baked Beans?
Yes, you can substitute with other canned beans like kidney or pinto beans. Adjust cooking time if using dried beans.
What can I add to my BBQ Baked Beans?
You can enhance your BBQ Baked Beans by adding ingredients like bell peppers, jalapeños, or even ground beef for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers of BBQ Baked Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Can I make BBQ Baked Beans ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking them on your desired day.
What are some serving suggestions for BBQ Baked Beans?
BBQ Baked Beans pair wonderfully with grilled meats, coleslaw, or cornbread, making them perfect for summer cookouts.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Baked Beans are a delightful addition to any meal. Their rich flavor and hearty texture make them suitable for gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize with different ingredients or spices based on your taste preferences!
BBQ Baked Beans
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 8 people 1x
Description
BBQ Baked Beans are a must-have side dish that brings a burst of rich, smoky flavor to any gathering. Combining the sweetness of BBQ sauce, the savory depth of crispy bacon, and tender beans, this easy recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family dinners. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only complements grilled meats but also stands out on its own. Impress your guests with these hearty beans that are sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
- 6 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 (28 oz) cans original baked beans (undrained)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion in the remaining bacon fat until translucent. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the baked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed onions, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard. Stir well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
