The Best Baked Beans Recipe

If you’re searching for a classic side dish that complements everything from ribs and burgers to fried chicken, look no further than this ultimate baked beans recipe. These beans are sweet, saucy, and packed with flavor, making them a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

Why This Baked Beans Recipe is the Best

This baked beans recipe is designed to be your go-to for all your BBQ needs. Not only do these beans taste incredible on the day they’re made, but they also improve in flavor as they sit, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time. With a homemade taste that rivals any from-scratch version, and the convenience of canned beans, you get the best of both worlds without the hassle of soaking or boiling beans.

Key Ingredients

1. Bacon: Adds a savory, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the beans.

2. Beans: Using canned beans speeds up the cooking process and adds flavor. No need to drain the sauce from the beans.

3. Onion: Red onion provides a hint of sweetness and savory depth.

4. Brown Sugar & Molasses: These ingredients sweeten the beans and give them a rich, caramelized flavor. You can use light or dark brown sugar or even substitute with maple syrup.

5. Ketchup & Cider Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a tangy kick.

6. Flavorful Additions: Green bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard bring extra layers of flavor.

How to Make Perfect Baked Beans

1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by cooking the bacon in a Dutch oven until crispy. Set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté the Onion: In the same Dutch oven, sauté the onion and bell pepper in the bacon drippings over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients: Mix all the sauce ingredients together, then add them to the Dutch oven along with the cooked bacon.

4. Bake or Simmer: Bake the mixture in the oven, simmer on the stovetop, or use a slow cooker, following the recipe instructions provided below.

5. Serve and Enjoy: These beans are delicious as a side dish, and leftovers make a great beans-on-toast lunch!

Customization Options

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your tastes:

• Bean Varieties: Swap out the beans for white beans, black beans, kidney beans, or navy beans.
• Meat Additions: Stir in cooked ground beef, sliced hot dogs, or leftover ham bone for extra flavor.
• Tanginess: Add a bit of tomato paste or up to 8 oz of tomato sauce for a tangier flavor.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate jalapeños, green chiles, or a touch of garlic for additional heat and flavor.

Storing Leftovers

In the Fridge: Keep leftover baked beans in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, or enjoy them cold.

In the Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled beans in zippered bags and freeze for up to 6 months.

Aprons for Your BBQ

While you’re perfecting your baked beans, don’t forget to check out Aprontify’s selection of chef aprons. Designed for both style and functionality, these aprons feature adjustable straps, multiple pockets, and durable materials to keep you clean and organized. Whether you’re a grill master or a chef cook, Aprontify aprons are a must-have accessory. Explore our collection here and find the perfect apron for your next BBQ session!

Conclusion

This baked beans recipe is a versatile and tasty side dish that’s sure to be a hit at any BBQ or family gathering. With its rich, sweet flavor and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make time and time again. Enjoy your beans, and don’t forget to dress up your BBQ with a great apron from Aprontify!

This baked beans recipe is a hearty addition to your meals, a staple in the Desserts and Baked Goods category. Try it alongside Decadent Girdle Busters Dessert Recipe and Peanut Butter Cookies Without Brown Sugar.