The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans are a classic side dish that packs a flavorful punch, making them the perfect companion for burgers and hot dogs. They shine at cookouts, potlucks, and parties, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory notes. What makes this recipe stand out is its ease of preparation and the use of turkey bacon to keep the flavor robust while avoiding certain ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a comforting side with your weeknight meals.
• Crowd-Pleasing: It serves 8 generously, making it ideal for gatherings where you want to impress guests.
• Healthier Alternative: Using turkey bacon adds flavor without the heaviness of traditional pork products.

Tools and Preparation

To make The BEST BBQ Baked Beans, having the right tools is essential. These items will ensure your cooking process is efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large baking dish: Provides ample space for combining ingredients and allows for even baking.
• Frying pan: Ideal for cooking the turkey bacon until crispy, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Ingredients

For the Beans

• 12 slices Turkey turkey bacon
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 cans beef and beans (16 ounces each)

For the Flavoring

• 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. Set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cut up the turkey bacon into small pieces. Cook them in a frying pan over medium heat until very crispy. Once cooked, remove from grease and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Reserve about ½ cup of turkey bacon for topping later.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same frying pan with remaining grease from the turkey bacon, add chopped onions. Sauté until they are soft and translucent. Then, add these sautéed onions to the bowl with turkey bacon.

Step 4: Prepare the Beans

Open each can of beef and beans. Pour off any standing liquid on top before adding them to the large mixing bowl with turkey bacon and onions.

Step 5: Mix in Flavorings

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

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with reserved crispy turkey bacon pieces. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbling and slightly browned on top.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ baked beans alongside your favorite dishes!

How to Serve The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans are a delicious and hearty side that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or enjoying a casual dinner, these beans are versatile and easy to pair with various dishes.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Burgers – The sweet and smoky flavor of the beans complements juicy burgers perfectly.
• Hot Dogs – Serve alongside hot dogs for a classic summer meal that everyone will love.
• Grilled Chicken – These beans make an excellent side for grilled chicken, enhancing its flavors.

Use as a Dip

• Tortilla Chips – Scoop the baked beans with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
• Veggie Platter – Offer baked beans as a dip in a veggie platter for healthy snacking.

Make it a Meal

• Over Rice – Serve the beans over steamed rice for a filling dish that’s easy to prepare.
• Stuffed Potatoes – Top baked potatoes with BBQ baked beans for a hearty and satisfying meal.

How to Perfect The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

Achieving the perfect BBQ baked beans is all about balance and flavor. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold Flavors – Consider adding more spices or smoked paprika for an extra kick in flavor.
• Texture Matters – For creaminess, mash some of the beans before mixing; this adds depth to the dish.
• Custom Sweetness – Adjust brown sugar levels based on your preference; try adding honey or maple syrup for variation.
• Herb Infusion – Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving for an aromatic touch.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

BBQ baked beans pair well with many side dishes, creating a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw – A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots provides crunch to contrast the rich flavors of the beans.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory notes of BBQ baked beans beautifully.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies add color and health benefits while enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers another layer of texture and flavor, making it a classic pairing.
5. Macaroni Salad – This creamy side is beloved at gatherings and pairs nicely with hearty dishes like baked beans.
6. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

BBQ baked beans can be a delightful dish, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results:

• Overcooking the bacon – Cooking turkey bacon too long can make it chewy. Instead, cook until crispy but not burnt to maintain the right texture.
• Ignoring bean preparation – Not draining the liquid from canned beans can lead to overly watery baked beans. Always drain well before adding to your mixture.
• Underestimating seasoning – Skipping on spices or sauces can leave your beans bland. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and taste before baking for optimal flavor.
• Using incorrect baking dish size – Using a dish that’s too small can cause spills and uneven cooking. Ensure you use a large enough baking dish, like 9×13 inches, for even baking.
• Not allowing time for flavors to meld – Rushing the cooking time can result in less flavorful beans. Bake them long enough to allow all flavors to blend beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ baked beans in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

• Portion the beans into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating The BEST BBQ Baked Beans

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the beans in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat until warm throughout, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place a serving of beans in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – In a saucepan over medium heat, stir the beans occasionally until warmed through, which should take about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes The BEST BBQ Baked Beans special?

The combination of sweet brown sugar, tangy mustard, and rich BBQ sauce gives these baked beans their distinctive flavor that pairs well with many dishes.

Can I make The BEST BBQ Baked Beans ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and assemble them a day in advance. Just bake them on the day you plan to serve.

How do I customize The BEST BBQ Baked Beans?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like jalapeños for spice or bell peppers for crunch. This recipe is versatile!

What side dishes go well with The BEST BBQ Baked Beans?

These baked beans pair excellently with grilled meats like chicken or turkey, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Final Thoughts

The BEST BBQ Baked Beans are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile as a side dish for any occasion. With their rich flavors and adaptability, you can customize them easily to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!