Why BBQ Baked Beans Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When I think of a perfect BBQ spread, BBQ baked beans always come to mind. They’re hearty, sweet, and smoky, complementing grilled meats like no other side dish can.
The blend of flavors creates a comfort food that appeals to everyone at the table. I love how they hold their own, adding depth to any meal. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be prepared in advance, which is a lifesaver during busy BBQ gatherings.
With each spoonful, I’m reminded of summer cookouts and the joy of sharing good food with friends and family. They’re simply a must-have!
Ingredients of BBQ Baked Beans
When it comes to whipping up a delicious batch of BBQ baked beans, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This recipe isn’t just about throwing things into a pot; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that dance together beautifully.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a newbie in the kitchen, gathering these ingredients will set you on the right path to making something truly scrumptious. Plus, these beans are perfect for feeding a crowd, so get ready to make some friends at your next BBQ.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 (15-ounce) cans of pinto beans (with liquid)
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 2 teaspoons of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of ketchup
- 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce (I recommend Sonny’s Sweet BBQ Sauce)
- 1/3 cup of white vinegar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of diced onions
- 1 teaspoon of mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1 pound of cooked ground beef
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients for a moment. The beauty of BBQ baked beans lies in their versatility. You can easily swap out pinto beans for black beans or navy beans, depending on what you have in your pantry or what you prefer.
And don’t be afraid to play around with the barbecue sauce; different brands can bring unique flavors to the table. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to making these beans your own, so get creative and have a little fun. After all, cooking should be a joyful experience, right? Just remember, if you end up with beans everywhere, that’s a sign you’re having a good time!
How to Make BBQ Baked Beans
Making BBQ baked beans is as easy as pie, and trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees. While it’s warming up, grab a casserole dish and pour in the entire contents of those 4 (15-ounce) cans of pinto beans, liquid and all. Yes, don’t drain them; that liquid is what makes these beans wonderfully saucy.
In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until it’s all smooth and combined. This little magic trick will help thicken your sauce as it bakes. Stir this mixture into the beans, giving it a good mix so everything gets acquainted.
Now, let’s add in the fun stuff. Pour in 1/2 cup of ketchup, followed by 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce—Sonny’s Sweet BBQ Sauce is my go-to, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Then, add in 1/3 cup of white vinegar, which adds a lovely tang, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar for sweetness. Toss in 2 tablespoons of diced onions, 1 teaspoon of mustard, and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of fresh coarse ground black pepper.
Finally, don’t forget that 1 pound of cooked ground beef. Mix it all up until it’s well combined, cover the dish with foil, and pop it in the oven.
Now, here’s the thing, you’ll want to bake those beans for about 90 minutes. But, and this is a big but, make sure to stir every 30 minutes. It’s like giving your beans a little spa treatment; they need your love and attention to thicken up just right.
When the time’s up, let the beans cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This waiting game is the hardest part, but trust me, that first bite will be worth it.
BBQ Baked Beans Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up with your BBQ baked beans, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
For a twist, try using black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey or keep it plant-based with lentils or tempeh.
If you want a smoky flavor, add some chopped bacon or smoked paprika. For sweetness, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Experiment with different barbecue sauces, and don’t forget to throw in some jalapeños for a kick! The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
What to Serve with BBQ Baked Beans
After experimenting with different variations of BBQ baked beans, you might be wondering what to pair them with for a complete meal.
I love serving these beans alongside grilled meats like ribs or chicken, as the smoky flavors complement each other beautifully. A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy, revitalizing contrast, balancing out the hearty beans.
Cornbread is another favorite of mine; its sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory beans. For a lighter option, consider a green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette.
These sides create a delicious spread that makes any gathering feel like a summer BBQ feast!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing BBQ baked beans, I’ve found a few tips that can elevate the dish even further.
First, if you like a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or some diced bacon.
I also recommend letting the beans sit for a bit after baking; the flavors meld beautifully.
If you’re in a rush, you can use canned beans without liquid and adjust the sauce accordingly.
For a kick, throw in some jalapeños or hot sauce.
Finally, don’t skip the stirring during baking; it guarantees even cooking and prevents burning.
Enjoy your delicious creation!