When it comes to crowd-pleasing side dishes, few things can compete with a hearty bowl of BBQ baked beans. Their irresistible combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors makes them a perfect addition to any barbecue spread, family gathering, or potluck. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on their own, BBQ baked beans are comfort food at its best. This recipe will guide you through creating a rich, flavorful batch of beans that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a mouthwatering batch of BBQ baked beans:
- 4 cups canned navy beans (or you can use great northern beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 lb smoked bacon, diced (optional but adds amazing depth of flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand, or make it homemade!)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to adjust the seasonings or sweetness depending on your preferences!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re baking the beans. You can also make these entirely on the stovetop or in a slow cooker for convenience.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Set a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. If you’re using bacon, cook it first until it’s crispy. Remove it from the pot, leaving about 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting its aroma shine.
3. Mix the Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and stir in the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Pour in the water or chicken broth and mix well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the Beans
Fold the navy beans into the sauce, ensuring they’re well-coated. If you cooked bacon earlier, stir most of it in now, saving a handful for topping. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar for tanginess.
5. Bake or Simmer
Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and the beans will soak up all the rich, smoky flavor. If you prefer to make this on the stovetop, simmer the beans gently over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring now and then. For a slow cooker version, cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors are beautifully melded.
6. Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the reserved bacon bits over the top for extra smoky goodness. Serve the beans hot and watch them disappear from the table!
Tips for Customization
- Add Meat: For an even heartier dish, add chunks of smoked sausage, pulled pork, or diced brisket to the beans.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To bring in the smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
- Turn Up the Heat: If you like a spicier kick, add minced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder.
- Sweeten the Deal: For a sweeter touch, try adding honey, maple syrup, or diced pineapple.
What to Pair BBQ Baked Beans With
These baked beans are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with BBQ classics like smoked ribs, grilled burgers, or pulled pork sandwiches. They also go great with cornbread, coleslaw, and potato salad for a full Southern-style feast. Don’t forget a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade to wash it all down!
Perfect for Gatherings
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or attending a potluck, BBQ baked beans are always a hit. They’re easy to make in large batches, can be prepared ahead of time, and stay warm for hours in a slow cooker. Plus, they’re a comforting, belly-warming dish that brings people together with every bite.
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this smoky, savory, sweet dish. Once they taste these BBQ baked beans, they’ll crown you the MVP of the barbecue!
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