The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans are a crowd-pleaser that brings the perfect blend of sweetness and smokiness to your plate. They’re not just great alongside burgers and hot dogs; these beans shine at cookouts, potlucks, and family gatherings. With their rich flavor profile and satisfying texture, you’ll find that they are as versatile as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a hassle-free addition to any meal.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce and seasonings creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add extra spices to suit your taste buds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these beans fit right in.
• Nutritious Option: With beans as the main ingredient, you’re not only enjoying great flavor but also a healthy dose of protein and fiber.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing BBQ baked beans is simple when you have the right tools on hand. These essential kitchen items will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
• Baking dish: The ideal size ensures even cooking for your BBQ baked beans, resulting in a perfectly baked dish.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, making it easier to clean up after baking.
• Frying pan: Perfect for cooking turkey bacon until crispy, adding flavor to your beans.

Ingredients

For the Beans

• 12 slices Turkey turkey bacon
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cans beef and Beans (16 ounces each)
• ¾ cup of brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons yellow mustard
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (I use Sweet Baby Ray’s)
• ⅓ cup of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s heating, take a large 9×13 inch baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cut up the Turkey turkey bacon into small pieces. In a frying pan, cook the bacon until it becomes very crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the grease and place it in a large mixing bowl. Reserve about ½ cup of cooked Turkey turkey bacon for topping later.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

In the same frying pan with some remaining Turkey turkey bacon grease, add chopped onions. Sauté them until they’re soft and translucent. Then, transfer them to the bowl with the cooked Turkey turkey bacon.

Step 4: Add the Beans

Open each can of beef and Beans. Pour off any standing liquid on top before adding them directly into your large mixing bowl with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add brown sugar, yellow mustard, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper into the mixing bowl. Stir everything together well until fully combined.

Step 6: Bake

Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the reserved crispy Turkey turkey bacon bits. Place in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until you see some browning on top and bubbling around the edges.

Enjoy these delicious BBQ baked beans as a side that everyone will love!

How to Serve The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

Serving BBQ baked beans is easy and versatile. These beans can complement a variety of main dishes, making them a favorite at cookouts and gatherings. Here are some delicious ways to serve them.

With Grilled Meats

• Burgers – Pair the beans with juicy burgers for a classic BBQ experience.
• Hot Dogs – Serve alongside hot dogs for a delightful picnic-style meal.
• Grilled Chicken – The smoky flavor of grilled chicken enhances the sweet and tangy beans.

As Part of a Salad Bar

• Mixed Greens – Include baked beans as a protein-packed topping for fresh mixed greens.
• Potato Salad – Offer baked beans next to creamy potato salad for a hearty feast.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• BBQ Wraps – Use the baked beans as a filling in wraps with grilled vegetables.
• Sandwiches – Add a scoop of baked beans to sandwiches for extra flavor and texture.

How to Perfect The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

To elevate your BBQ baked beans, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh onions and high-quality BBQ sauce for better taste.
• Adjust Sweetness – Modify the amount of brown sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add different spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an added kick.
• Stir Well – Make sure all ingredients are well combined in the bowl before baking for even flavor distribution.
• Add Toppings After Baking – Consider adding fresh herbs or jalapeños on top after baking for extra freshness.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw complements the sweetness of the beans perfectly.
2. Cornbread – Soft, buttery cornbread is ideal for soaking up delicious bean sauce.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad provides a refreshing contrast to savory baked beans.
5. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes bring hearty satisfaction alongside the dish.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs well with any BBQ item.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

BBQ baked beans can be a hit or miss. Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the BEST BBQ Baked Beans every time.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking your beans can lead to longer cooking times and less tender beans. Make sure to soak them overnight for the best texture.
• Using low-quality BBQ sauce: The flavor of your baked beans heavily relies on BBQ sauce. Opt for a high-quality brand that you enjoy eating straight from the bottle.
• Not balancing flavors: Forgetting to balance sweet and savory flavors can result in bland beans. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust sugar or mustard as needed.
• Overcooking: Cooking the beans for too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them during baking and remove them when they are bubbly and slightly browned.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to add enough seasoning can lead to tasteless beans. Don’t shy away from spices; consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best used within 3–5 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, place the beans in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The BEST BBQ Baked Beans.

What types of beans work best for BBQ baked beans?

You can use navy beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. Each type provides a unique texture and flavor but works well with BBQ sauce.

Can I customize The BEST BBQ Baked Beans recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor or spice. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by changing the amount of brown sugar.

How do I know when my baked beans are done?

The BEST BBQ Baked Beans should be bubbly around the edges and have a slightly caramelized top after baking for about 30 minutes at 400°F.

Are these baked beans suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well in the fridge and freezer, making them perfect for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

The BEST BBQ Baked Beans are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering or cookout. With options to customize flavors and ingredients, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try at your next barbecue!