Easy Ultimate Baked Beans Recipe
Introduction
Baked beans are a classic side dish that can be easily elevated with a few simple ingredients. This Easy Ultimate Baked Beans recipe transforms canned beans into a rich, flavorful accompaniment perfect for BBQs, dinners, or any casual gathering. With smoky bacon and a sweet-savory sauce, these beans will become a family favorite all year round.
Ingredients
- 1 (28 oz) can baked beans
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped into 1/4 inch pieces
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a casserole dish, cast iron pan, or any oven-safe dish, combine all the ingredients. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Bake the beans uncovered for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a hearty side dish.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoky twist, add leftover pulled pork or brisket to the beans before baking.
- If you don’t have brown sugar, maple syrup makes a great substitute for a different kind of sweetness.
- To add more texture and flavor, try mixing in diced bell peppers or yellow onions.
- You can also prepare this recipe in a slow cooker by cooking on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. These baked beans also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these baked beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Stir occasionally for best results. This method is convenient and builds deep flavor.
Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?
No soaking is necessary because this recipe uses canned baked beans, which are pre-cooked. This makes the recipe quick and simple without extra prep time.
Print
Easy Ultimate Baked Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Easy Ultimate Baked Beans is a flavorful and comforting side dish made by enhancing canned baked beans with bacon, onions, and a blend of sweet and tangy ingredients, then baked to perfection. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and family dinners, this recipe transforms simple canned beans into a rich, hearty, and irresistible dish loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Beans and Meat
- 1 (28 oz) can baked beans
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped into 1/4 inch pieces
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
Condiments and Sweeteners
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the beans.
- Combine Ingredients: In an oven-safe casserole dish, cast iron pan, or large skillet, add the canned baked beans, chopped cooked bacon, diced red onion, minced garlic, ketchup, yellow mustard, brown sugar, molasses, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly mixed.
- Bake the Beans: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. About halfway through baking, stir the beans to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and serve warm as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite BBQ dishes or meals.
Notes
- If you prefer to use a slow cooker instead of the oven, combine all ingredients and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor, but you can use leftover brisket or pulled pork to add a different depth of BBQ taste.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness profile.
- No need to drain the canned beans; the liquid helps to create the perfect sauce.
- This recipe can be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers or yellow onions if you want a more traditional baked bean style.
- Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings, beans can be served with burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, or veggie kabobs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked beans, easy baked beans, BBQ side dish, summer side, canned beans recipe, bacon baked beans, party side dish
