Baked Barbecue Beans
A hearty baked barbecue beans dish with smoky flavors, sweet molasses, and savory spices, perfect for casual gatherings and outdoor cookouts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together, except bacon, in a heavy pot.
- Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and place on top of the beans.
- Cover and set the pot on the back of a grill.
- Cook over a slow fire, stirring occasionally, for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Alternatively, bake the beans in an oven and keep hot on the back of the grill.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a bit of liquid smoke or using smoked bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or molasses according to your taste. This dish can also benefit from a splash of your favorite hot sauce for added heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked barbecue beans as a hearty side dish at your next gathering or barbecue. They pair beautifully with dishes like Charlotte'S Special Ham Casserole or grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside cornbread or a fresh salad, such as Parmesan Potato Salad, to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, transfer the beans to a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Barbecue Beans contains roughly 167 calories, with 6g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade baked beans instead of canned?
Yes, homemade baked beans can be used in this recipe. Just ensure they are well-seasoned and cooked until soft. Adjust the other ingredients to taste, as homemade beans might have different flavor profiles compared to canned ones.
What type of barbecue spice should I use?
You can use any barbecue spice blend you prefer, but a sweet and smoky blend works best. Alternatively, you can create your own by mixing paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beans and combine all the ingredients a day in advance. Just refrigerate them, and when ready to serve, heat them up on the grill or in the oven. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).