Hickory Beans
Hickory Beans are a smoky, hearty side dish featuring baked beans coated in hickory smoked barbecue sauce, perfect for barbecues and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 cans pork and beans ⓘ
- 1/4 cup hickory smoked barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Crisco
Instructions
- Combine pork and beans, barbecue sauce, and Crisco in a baking dish.
- Bake for 40 minutes at 325°F, stirring occasionally.
- When done, the top will crisp over.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the mixture. You can substitute the hickory smoked barbecue sauce with any other barbecue sauce you prefer, such as mesquite or applewood. If you want more depth, stir in some diced onions or garlic before baking. For a vegetarian option, replace pork and beans with a mix of black beans and kidney beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hickory beans alongside grilled meats for a hearty meal, or pair them with Sage Biscuits for a comforting side. They also complement barbecue dishes or can be used as a filling in tacos. For a complete meal, consider serving a fresh salad like Kansas 24 Hour Layer Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hickory beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil, warming in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hickory Beans contains roughly 449 calories, with 0g protein and 50g fat.
* % 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. Soak and cook them until tender before mixing with the barbecue sauce and Crisco. Keep in mind that this will extend the preparation time significantly, as dried beans need to be cooked prior to baking.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can combine all ingredients and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to take it out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Certainly! Ground beef or diced bacon can be added for extra protein and flavor. Cook the meat beforehand and mix it in with the other ingredients before baking. This additional meat will enhance the dish, making it even heartier.
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).