Barbecue Beans For A Crowd
A hearty and flavorful barbecue bean dish with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, and tangy barbecue sauce, perfect for feeding a crowd at gatherings or parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 5-quart Dutch oven, add the drained pork and beans, brown sugar, chopped bacon, chopped onion, barbecue sauce, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 2 hours, stirring often.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or using a different barbecue sauce variety. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, depending on your taste preference. This recipe is a great base for experimenting with other ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
These barbecue beans are perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or family gatherings. Serve them alongside grilled meats, such as ribs or burgers, and pair with a crisp salad like Elaine'S Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing contrast. They also make a hearty filling for a baked potato or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish with cornbread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, transfer the beans to a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave portions in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Beans For A Crowd contains roughly 793 calories, with 5g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Start by soaking the beans overnight, then cook them until tender before adding them to the recipe. This will require more time, so plan accordingly.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level. For a different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe typically serves about 16 people, making it ideal for large gatherings or potlucks. If you're expecting a smaller group, you can easily halve the ingredients or store leftovers for later enjoyment.
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).