best bbq baked beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
best bbq baked beans recipe
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The Best best bbq baked beans recipe

I’ve been perfecting my BBQ baked beans recipe for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. My family loves it, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings and barbecues.

I love how the sweet and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce and the smokiness of the bacon come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The key to making great baked beans is to cook them low and slow, so the flavors have time to meld together and the beans are tender and velvety.

I use a combination of navy beans and kidney beans for a texture that’s both creamy and chunky. I also add in some brown sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that extra depth of flavor.

It’s a recipe that’s easy to make, but requires some patience, as the beans need to simmer for at least an hour to develop that perfect texture. But trust me, it’s worth the wait.

The end result is a dish that’s both familiar and innovative, with flavors that are both comforting and exciting. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a hearty meal for your family.

Best BBQ Baked Beans

Best BBQ Baked Beans

4.9 from 902 votes

These BBQ baked beans are a classic side dish with a rich, smoky sweetness. They combine tender navy beans with a tangy homemade sauce for a perfect balance of flavors.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

4 cups cooked navy beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
6 slices bacon, chopped

For the Sauce

1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
4Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
6In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.
7Pour this sauce mixture into the pot with the onions and garlic, stirring to combine.
8Add the cooked navy beans and the reserved bacon to the pot.
9Stir everything together until the beans are evenly coated with the sauce.
10Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
11Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
12Bake for 1 hour, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the beans are tender.
13The beans should look glossy and the sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
14Remove the pot from the oven and let the beans rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
16Serve warm as a side dish.

🔧Equipment

Large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 44g🥦Dietary Fiber: 7g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil instead. You can also add a dash of liquid smoke for extra smokiness. These beans taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Watch Video Of How Best BBQ Baked Beans Works

I always keep a batch of these BBQ baked beans in the fridge for quick meals or unexpected guests. They store well for up to five days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.

To reheat just add a splash of water or broth to keep them from drying out. For serving I like to put them out in a big bowl with a ladle so everyone can help themselves.

They work great alongside grilled meats at a backyard party or even as a main dish with a side of cornbread. This recipe is a staple in my home and I think it will become one in yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Baked Beans

1. Can I make these BBQ baked beans ahead of time?

Yes you can make them a day or two in advance. The flavors actually get better as they sit. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the oven.

2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Absolutely. If you use dried beans you need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding the sauce. It takes more time but some people prefer the texture.

3. How do I make these beans less sweet?

Reduce the brown sugar by half or use a sugar substitute. You can also add more vinegar or mustard to balance the sweetness. Taste as you go and adjust.

4. Can I cook these beans in a slow cooker?

Yes a slow cooker works great. Combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally if you can.

5. What can I serve with these BBQ baked beans?

They go perfectly with grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or burgers. Coleslaw, cornbread, and potato salad are also classic sides that pair well.

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