Why BBQ Baked Beans Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
Why should BBQ baked beans be a staple at your next cookout? Well, they’re the perfect side dish that complements any grilled meat.
The rich, smoky flavor and hearty texture create a satisfying experience for your guests. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare! I often make a big batch, letting the beans simmer while I focus on the main course.
They’re also versatile—add in your favorite spices or meats for a personalized touch. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a warm, comforting bowl of BBQ baked beans?
Trust me, your cookout won’t feel complete without them!
Ingredients of BBQ Baked Beans
When it comes to BBQ baked beans, the ingredients are the real stars of the show. They come together to create a mouthwatering medley of flavors that just screams summer cookouts. Not only are they packed with hearty goodness, but they also have that perfect balance of sweetness and tang that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
Plus, with just a handful of pantry staples and a dash of love, you can whip up a batch that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds… or thirds. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to prepare something delicious.
Here’s what you’ll need to make BBQ Baked Beans:
- 4 (15 ounce) cans of pinto beans (with liquid)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (like Sonny’s Sweet BBQ Sauce)
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons diced onions
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1 lb cooked ground beef
Now, before you plunge into cooking, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit more. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can totally swap out the pinto beans for black beans or navy beans, depending on your taste.
And, if you prefer a vegetarian option, simply leave out the ground beef or replace it with some sautéed mushrooms for that hearty texture. Don’t hesitate to play around with the spices, too! Maybe you like it a little spicier? Toss in some cayenne or jalapeños.
The beauty of BBQ baked beans is their versatility; you can truly make them your own. Just remember, the key is to balance those flavors so every bite is a little piece of heaven.
How to Make BBQ Baked Beans
Making BBQ Baked Beans is a wonderfully simple process that can turn your kitchen into a cozy haven of delicious aromas. First off, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. While that’s warming up, grab a casserole dish and pour in the entire contents of 4 (15 ounce) cans of pinto beans, including the liquid. Trust me, that liquid is like liquid gold—it helps create a rich, flavorful sauce.
Now, in a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. This little mixture will aid in thickening the beans as they bake, giving you that perfect, saucy texture. Stir it into the beans, and make sure everything is well combined.
Next, it’s time to add some punchy flavors. Toss in 1/2 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce (I’m partial to Sonny’s Sweet BBQ Sauce), 1/3 cup of white vinegar, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Then, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of diced onions, 1 teaspoon of mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, and season with 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and fresh coarse ground black pepper.
And let’s not forget the 1 pound of cooked ground beef. Mix it all together, and oh boy, the smell is already starting to get your taste buds tingling. Once everything is well blended, cover your casserole dish with foil and pop it in the oven.
Now, here’s the key part: you’ll want to bake these beauties for about 90 minutes. But don’t just set it and forget it; stir the beans every 30 minutes. This helps those flavors mingle and guarantees that the sauce thickens nicely.
Once the timer goes off, take the beans out and let them cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before diving in. This is the hardest part, I swear. You’ll want to dig right in, but trust me, letting them cool just a bit helps the flavors settle.
And there you have it—BBQ Baked Beans that are sure to impress at any gathering. Just be prepared for everyone to ask for seconds, because these beans are downright addictive.
BBQ Baked Beans Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up a batch of those delicious BBQ Baked Beans, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
You can easily swap pinto beans for black beans or navy beans for a different texture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
For a smoky flavor, try adding chopped bacon or smoked sausage. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different barbecue sauces or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
You can even toss in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a fresh twist. Enjoy your culinary creativity!
What to Serve with BBQ Baked Beans
There’s something truly satisfying about BBQ Baked Beans, and pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal.
I love serving them alongside cornbread; the sweetness complements the beans perfectly. Grilled hot dogs or sausages are also a hit, adding that classic BBQ vibe.
For a lighter touch, a fresh coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness. If you want something heartier, try some smoky BBQ ribs.
Don’t forget a rejuvenating potato salad, which rounds out the plate nicely. Each of these sides enhances the experience, making your BBQ baked beans the star of the show!
Additional Tips & Notes
While BBQ Baked Beans are delicious as-is, there are several tips and notes that can enhance your experience.
First, consider adding bacon for a smoky flavor—just cook it first and mix it in with the ground beef. You might also experiment with different barbecue sauces to match your taste.
If you like a bit of heat, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Finally, letting the beans sit for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, these little tweaks can elevate your dish to a whole new level!