When summer rolls around, nothing makes me happier than the smell of sizzling meat on the grill. There’s just something special about gathering family and friends outdoors, soaking in the sunshine, and indulging in delicious food.
But let’s be honest—those grilled burgers and hot dogs need something special on the side, don’t they? Enter my BBQ Baked Beans. These beans are the perfect complement to any barbecue feast. They’re rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, making them a staple at my summer cookouts.
Plus, who doesn’t love a little sweetness paired with smoky goodness?

Today, I’m excited to share my BBQ Baked Beans recipe—a dish that has become a must-have for any cookout or picnic. It’s a classic Americana dish with heartiness, flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness.
Trust me when I say, these beans are not just an afterthought; they take center stage alongside your juicy burgers or smoky ribs.
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What is BBQ Baked Bean Recipe?
BBQ Baked Beans are a deliciously comforting side dish made primarily from canned beans flavored with bacon, onions, and a variety of seasonings. Traditionally, they have a slight sweetness and smokiness from ingredients like brown sugar and BBQ sauce. They’re baked until bubbling and can be served hot from the oven or made ahead of time for hassle-free entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Baked Bean Recipe?
For one, it’s super easy and takes under an hour to whip up. You can make it ahead of time, which frees you up to enjoy your guests on the big day. The combination of smoky and sweet flavors melds into each bite, creating something special. Not to mention, it’s versatile—feel free to add or swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand. Trust me—this recipe is going to become a favorite!
The Ingredients

Let’s dive into what makes this BBQ Baked Beans dish delectable. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 slices of bacon, diced (plus 2 extra slices for topping, optional)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– ¼ to ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 (22-ounce) cans of baked beans (I love using Bush’s Grillin’ Beans for this)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for extra depth)
The additional Worcestershire sauce adds a savory layer that complements the sweetness beautifully. Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—cooking!
Ingredients From : howsweeteats.com
How to Make BBQ Baked Bean Recipe?
Making BBQ Baked Beans is straightforward and requires just a few steps to create something truly mouthwatering. Follow along, and I promise, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious side that everyone will love.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps ensure your beans will be bubbling and delicious by the time they’re done baking, so don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Take a large oven-safe skillet (if you have it; otherwise, any skillet works) and heat it over medium-low heat. Dice the bacon and add it to the skillet. Cook until it’s nice and crispy, allowing the fat to render out. You can smell the goodness already!
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Next, toss in your chopped onions and bell pepper. Stir them around until they soften, about five minutes, and then add the minced garlic. You want everything to be fragrant and lovely.
Step 4: Add Spices

Now it’s time to sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, salt, and cracked black pepper. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly. This will awaken the flavors and create a base that’s to die for!
Step 5: Combine Sauces and Beans
Pour in the apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything until it’s well combined, bringing it to a gentle boil. Lastly, stir in the canned baked beans directly from the can. Be careful! Things might get a little bubbly; our goal is delicious, not explosive.
Step 6: Customize and Transfer

At this point, it’s worth tasting the mixture. If you wish, add more salt, pepper, or even more chipotle for extra heat. If you like, lay those extra slices of bacon on top for a lovely finishing touch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place your skillet in the preheated oven (or transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish). Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and slightly caramelized on top. The smell should be incredible!
Step 8: Let it Rest
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This resting time can deepen the flavors even more.
Tips & Tricks
Here are a few tips to elevate your BBQ Baked Beans even further:
– Use High-Quality Bacon: The flavor from the bacon is crucial, so choose a good-quality option for maximum impact.
– Taste Often: Adjust seasonings and spices according to your taste preferences.
– Meal Prep Friendly: You can make these beans a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake before serving.
– Freeze for Later: If you have leftovers, they freeze beautifully. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
– Garnish with Green Onions: Just before serving, consider adding some chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
Can I Store BBQ Baked Bean Recipe?
Absolutely! You can store BBQ Baked Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them up. If you’d like, you can also portion them into smaller containers for easy reheating. When reheating, add a splash of water or a bit more BBQ sauce to retain their creamy texture.
What Can I Serve with BBQ Baked Bean Recipe?
Pairing BBQ Baked Beans with the right dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:
– Grilled Burgers: The smokiness will complement the beef perfectly.
– BBQ Ribs: A classic pairing that just makes sense.
– Hot Dogs: These beans will give the meal a nostalgic twist.
– Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread is a delightful contrast to the savory beans.
– Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity provide a refreshing balance to the hearty beans.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in BBQ Baked Bean Recipe?
If you’re looking to make a few substitutions based on dietary needs or preferences, here are some ideas:
– Vegetarian Sausage: Swap the bacon for diced vegetarian sausage for a meatless option.
– Different Beans: Feel free to use black beans or kidney beans in place of traditional baked beans.
– Agave Nectar: If you prefer a healthier sweetener, agave nectar can replace brown sugar.
– Mustard Variants: Switch out Dijon for yellow mustard if that’s what you have on hand.
– Bell Pepper Substitutes: Use zucchini or corn for a different texture and flavor profile.
Conclusion
Now that you have the ultimate BBQ Baked Bean recipe in your arsenal, you’re all set for your next cookout or picnic. This dish is not just simple to prepare but filled with flavors that complement any grilled favorite. What’s more, it’s an excellent option for meal prep or freezing, making it a true winner in my kitchen.
Enjoy those summer days, good company, and, of course, these fantastic beans! Happy cooking!
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BBQ Baked Bean Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Description
Today, I’m excited to share my BBQ Baked Beans recipe—a dish that has become a must-have for any cookout or picnic. It’s a classic Americana dish with heartiness, flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredient
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps ensure your beans will be bubbling and delicious by the time they’re done baking, so don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
-
Take a large oven-safe skillet (if you have it; otherwise, any skillet works) and heat it over medium-low heat. Dice the bacon and add it to the skillet. Cook until it's nice and crispy, allowing the fat to render out. You can smell the goodness already!
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
-
Next, toss in your chopped onions and bell pepper. Stir them around until they soften, about five minutes, and then add the minced garlic. You want everything to be fragrant and lovely.
Step 4: Add Spices
-
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, salt, and cracked black pepper. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly. This will awaken the flavors and create a base that’s to die for!
Step 5: Combine Sauces and Beans
-
Pour in the apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything until it's well combined, bringing it to a gentle boil. Lastly, stir in the canned baked beans directly from the can. Be careful! Things might get a little bubbly; our goal is delicious, not explosive.
Step 6: Customize and Transfer
-
At this point, it's worth tasting the mixture. If you wish, add more salt, pepper, or even more chipotle for extra heat. If you like, lay those extra slices of bacon on top for a lovely finishing touch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
-
Carefully place your skillet in the preheated oven (or transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish). Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and slightly caramelized on top. The smell should be incredible!
Step 8: Let it Rest
-
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This resting time can deepen the flavors even more.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 230kcal
Note
Here are a few tips to elevate your BBQ Baked Beans even further:
- Use High-Quality Bacon: The flavor from the bacon is crucial, so choose a good-quality option for maximum impact.
- Taste Often: Adjust seasonings and spices according to your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can make these beans a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake before serving.
- Freeze for Later: If you have leftovers, they freeze beautifully. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.
- Garnish with Green Onions: Just before serving, consider adding some chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
