The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans are a crowd-pleaser that combines sweet and savory flavors, making them the perfect side dish for any gathering. Whether you’re grilling burgers, hosting a cookout, or enjoying a family barbecue, these beans elevate your meal with their rich taste and hearty texture. The BEST BBQ Baked Beans are not only easy to make but also use simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These beans are packed with a blend of sweet and smoky flavors that appeal to everyone.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, making BBQ baked beans is hassle-free — perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: They pair wonderfully with various main courses or can stand alone as a filling option.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks, these beans will impress your guests every time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and reheat when needed, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create the BEST BBQ Baked Beans, having the right tools makes all the difference. Gather your kitchen essentials to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients without spilling, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is perfect for baking a large batch of beans evenly, allowing for a delightful crust on top.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Using this prevents the beans from sticking to the dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

To make The BEST BBQ Baked Beans, gather the following ingredients:

• 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. Spray a large 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cut the Turkey turkey bacon into small pieces. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they become very crispy. Remove the cooked bacon from the grease and place it in a large mixing bowl, reserving ½ cup for topping later.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

In the same skillet with the remaining turkey bacon grease, add the chopped onion. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. Once done, add the sautéed onions to the bowl with turkey bacon.

Step 4: Combine Beans

Open each can of beef and beans. Pour off any excess liquid from the top before adding them to your large mixing bowl.

Step 5: Mix Ingredients

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

Step 6: Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining reserved Turkey turkey bacon on top of the bean mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until you’ll see it bubbling and slightly browned on top.

Enjoy your deliciously flavorful BBQ baked beans!

How to Serve The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans can be served in various ways to complement your meal. They are not only delicious but also versatile enough to pair with different dishes.

On a Burger

• Serve a generous scoop on top of grilled burgers for an added layer of flavor and texture.

With Grilled Hot Dogs

• Place a side of BBQ baked beans next to grilled hot dogs for the perfect summer cookout experience.

As a Dip

• Use them as a hearty dip alongside tortilla chips or pita bread, making for a tasty appetizer or snack.

In Tacos

• Spoon some beans into soft or hard tacos, adding a smoky element to your favorite fillings.

With Cornbread

• Pair BBQ baked beans with cornbread for a classic Southern-style meal that will satisfy your taste buds.

How to Perfect The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

To achieve the ultimate BBQ baked beans, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Choose quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality beans and fresh onions to elevate the overall taste.
• Adjust sweetness: Experiment with brown sugar levels to find the perfect balance of sweetness in your dish.
• Add spices: Incorporate additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra depth.
• Let them rest: Allow the baked beans to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps the flavors meld together.
• Use leftovers creatively: Repurpose any leftover baked beans in casseroles or mixed into other dishes for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

These side dishes pair wonderfully with BBQ baked beans, rounding out your meal perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken
   Juicy grilled chicken complements the flavors of the baked beans beautifully.

2. Coleslaw
   A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the beans, making it an ideal pairing.

3. Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad provides a cool contrast to the warmth of BBQ baked beans.

4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that enhances any barbecue spread.

5. Macaroni and Cheese
   This cheesy comfort food creates a rich combination with the savory flavors of your baked beans.

6. Grilled Vegetables
   Colorful grilled veggies add nutrients and freshness, making your plate visually appealing and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ baked beans, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the overall flavor and texture.

• Boldly skip soaking beans: Not soaking dried beans can lead to a longer cooking time and uneven texture. Always soak overnight for the best results.
• Boldly ignore seasoning balance: Adding too much sugar or salt can overwhelm the dish. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings gradually.
• Boldly rush the cooking process: Baking for too short a time may result in undercooked beans. Allow enough time for flavors to meld and the dish to bubble.
• Boldly underestimate ingredient prep: Not chopping onions finely can lead to uneven distribution in your beans. Aim for a fine chop for better integration of flavors.
• Boldly overlook storage tips: Storing leftover baked beans improperly can impact their taste and safety. Use airtight containers for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The BEST BBQ Baked Beans will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 25 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can mix various beans like kidney or pinto beans for different flavors and textures.

What is the best way to customize The BEST BBQ Baked Beans?

Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor or spice!

How long does it take to prepare The BEST BBQ Baked Beans?

The total time is about 50 minutes, which includes both preparation and baking time.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for added depth without meat.

Final Thoughts

The BEST BBQ Baked Beans are not only delicious but also versatile enough to accompany a range of dishes at any gathering. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients or spices to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser at your next cookout!