spicy baked beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best spicy baked beans recipe

I have been making this spicy baked beans recipe for years now and it is one of those dishes that just works for everything. My kids love it because it has a little kick but not too much and my husband says it reminds him of the beans his grandma used to make. I love that I can throw it together with ingredients I already have in my pantry and it makes the whole house smell amazing while it bakes.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. These beans have a rich and smoky flavor from the bacon and chipotle peppers and the sweetness from the brown sugar balances out the heat perfectly. The texture is thick and saucy and the beans get tender and creamy as they bake.

The key technique here is to cook the bacon first so it gets crispy and then saute the onions and garlic in the rendered fat. This builds a deep flavor base that makes the whole dish taste like it has been simmering all day. You also want to let the beans bake uncovered for the last part so the sauce reduces and gets thick and glossy.

What I really like about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or you can make it the main event with some crusty bread and a simple salad. It is also great for potlucks and barbecues because it travels well and tastes even better the next day.

The beans are packed with protein and fiber so they keep you full and satisfied. I often double the batch and freeze half for busy nights when I need a quick and easy meal. This recipe has become a staple in our house and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

It is simple to make but tastes like you spent a lot of time on it. The combination of spicy and sweet is just so good and it is one of those dishes that everyone always asks for the recipe. Whether you are making it for a family dinner or a big gathering these beans are sure to be a hit.

Spicy Baked Beans

4.7 from 1594 votes

These spicy baked beans are smoky, sweet, and have just the right amount of heat. They are made with canned beans, bacon, and chipotle peppers for a rich and complex flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

6 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can baked beans
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Place a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat on the stovetop.
3Add the chopped bacon and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the fat has rendered.
4Add the diced onion to the skillet with the bacon and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent.
5Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
6The garlic should not brown.
7Stir in the baked beans, kidney beans, black beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
8Mix everything together until well combined.
9The mixture will look a bit thin but will thicken as it bakes.
10Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
11Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the sauce has thickened and the beans are hot and bubbly.
12The top should look slightly caramelized.
13Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
14The beans will continue to thicken as they cool.
15Serve warm as a side dish or main course.

🔧Equipment

Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

For a milder version, use only one chipotle pepper or omit them entirely. You can also use all one type of bean if you prefer. These beans taste even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

Watch Video Of How Spicy Baked Beans Works

To store any leftovers, let the beans cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days and the flavors only get better with time.

To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick lunch.

These spicy baked beans are always a good idea for any occasion because they are easy to make, feed a crowd, and everyone loves them. They work well for family gatherings, potlucks, and barbecues because they can be made ahead of time and taste great at room temperature.

I love serving them with grilled sausages and a side of coleslaw for a perfect summer meal. This recipe is a keeper and I am sure it will become a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Baked Beans

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using a tablespoon of olive oil to saute the onions and garlic. For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke along with the other ingredients. The beans will still be hearty and delicious.

2. How spicy are these baked beans?

The spice level is moderate. One chipotle pepper gives a gentle warmth that most people can handle. If you like more heat, use two peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For less heat, use just the adobo sauce from the can without the peppers.

3. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. You will need to cook 1 cup of dried beans (about 3 cups cooked) for each can. Soak the beans overnight and then simmer them in water until tender before using them in this recipe. This will add about 2 hours to the prep time.

4. How do I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

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

These beans are great with grilled meats like chicken, pork chops, or burgers. They also pair well with cornbread, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, serve them over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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