Quick Barbecue Beans
A hearty, smoky baked bean dish with sweet apples and crispy bacon, perfect for casual gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the B & M beans, peeled and chopped apples, brown sugar, molasses, and crumbled bacon together in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a Pyrex loaf pan, saving some crumbled bacon for topping.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the bean mixture. You can substitute the B & M beans with any canned beans of your choice, but make sure they are similar in texture. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use smoked paprika for added depth. If you prefer a sweeter profile, try adding an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue beans hot, garnished with the reserved crumbled bacon on top. They make a fantastic side for grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. Pair them with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. These beans also complement dishes like Hickory Chip Dip remarkably well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, checking every minute to ensure they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Barbecue Beans contains roughly 474 calories, with 6g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% 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 other types of beans for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of canned beans, such as kidney, pinto, or black beans. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as different beans have unique flavors that may alter the final taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bean mixture a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you're ready to serve. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
What can I do if the beans are too sweet?
If you find the beans too sweet, try adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. You can also mix in some diced tomatoes or a bit of mustard to enhance the savory notes.
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).