Tennessee Baked Beans
Tennessee Baked Beans deliver smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with crispy bacon and caramelized onion, perfect as a hearty side dish for family gatherings or barbecues.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon pieces until crisp.
- Remove bacon and drain on paper towels.
- Saute chopped onion in bacon grease until translucent.
- Add drained pork and beans, brown sugar, chili sauce, and cooked bacon to the skillet.
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Pour mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it entirely, increasing the seasoning to enhance flavor. You can also replace chili sauce with barbecue sauce for a different taste. Make sure to drain the beans well to avoid a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tennessee Baked Beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue or picnic. They pair well with grilled meats, like Aunt Gen'S Barbecue Pork Chops, and complement sides such as Stove Top Potato Salad. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside cornbread or coleslaw for a delightful Southern-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the beans in a baking dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Baked Beans contains roughly 778 calories, with 4g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to the baking step, cover the casserole dish, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
What can I substitute for chili sauce?
If you don’t have chili sauce on hand, you can use barbecue sauce or a combination of ketchup with hot sauce to achieve a similar flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference, as these alternatives may vary in sweetness and heat.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. This process requires more time, as dried beans need to be soaked overnight and then boiled until tender before adding them to the recipe. This will allow for better texture and flavor absorption.
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).