Louisiana Barbecued Beans
Savory Louisiana-style baked beans infused with smoky bacon, tangy mustard, and rich flavors, perfect for hearty gatherings or comfort food lovers seeking bold, smoky profiles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a 4 to 6-quart capacity pot until crisp.
- Add onions and saute until clear.
- Add beans and stir.
- Add prepared mustard, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar.
- Stir well and lower heat to simmer.
- Let simmer, uncovered, until cooked down to the desired consistency (about 2 hours or more).
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, consider adding more liquid smoke or using smoked bacon. If you want a vegetarian version, replace bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it altogether, and use vegetable broth instead of water. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. This dish can also be enhanced with a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
These Louisiana Barbecued Beans are perfect as a hearty side dish for barbecues or potlucks. They pair beautifully with grilled meats, particularly ribs or chicken, and go well alongside cornbread or a fresh salad like Peas Pizzicato Salad. For a complete meal, serve them with coleslaw or Potato Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the beans have thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen them up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louisiana Barbecued Beans contains roughly 402 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pork and beans with other canned beans like navy beans or black beans for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the beans you choose.
How can I make these beans spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize their spice level.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beans a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them on the stovetop before serving, which may enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
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).