Why Easy BBQ Beans Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you’re planning a BBQ, I can’t stress enough how Easy BBQ Beans should be on your menu. They’re the perfect side dish that complements any grilled meat.
Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly simple to make. I love how they offer a sweet and savory flavor that everyone enjoys, making them a hit with family and friends.
Plus, they add a hearty element to your meal, ensuring nobody leaves the table hungry. Trust me, once you serve these beans, they’ll become a must-have at every gathering.
You won’t regret adding them to your BBQ lineup!
Ingredients of Easy BBQ Beans
When it comes to making a memorable BBQ meal, the ingredients in your Easy BBQ Beans play an essential role. You want to make sure you’re using quality items that not only taste great but also complement the other flavors on your grill.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delicious side dish that’s bound to impress.
Ingredients for Easy BBQ Beans:
- 2 cans of baked beans (Bush’s, Campbell’s, or Van Camp’s work well)
- 1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
- 1 lb ground pork, browned and drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion salt
Now, let’s talk about the fun part—customizing your ingredients. Feel free to experiment a bit! If you’re not a fan of ground beef or pork, you can switch things up with turkey or even some plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version.
And don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness; if you like it a little less sweet, cut back on the brown sugar or ketchup. On the flip side, if you’re a sweet tooth like my Aunt Judy, you might want to add a tad more brown sugar.
These beans are super forgiving, and that’s part of the beauty of the recipe. Just remember, the key is balancing those savory and sweet flavors. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to make some BBQ magic happen.
How to Make Easy BBQ Beans
Making Easy BBQ Beans is like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s simpler than you might think. First things first, let’s get that ground beef and ground pork ready. You’ll want to take 1 pound of each, and brown them in a skillet over medium heat. As they cook, don’t forget to drain off the fat and season them a bit. I usually just sprinkle in some salt and pepper, but you can go wild with your favorite spices if you like.
Once your meats are nice and browned, set them aside for a moment.
Now, grab a large baking dish, because we’re about to make some magic happen. Take those two cans of baked beans—yes, the trusty ones from Bush’s, Campbell’s, or Van Camp’s—and pour them into your baking dish. Then, toss in your beautifully browned beef and pork. It’s like they were meant to be together.
Next, let’s sweeten the deal: add in 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of ketchup. I know, it sounds a bit sweet, but trust me, it balances perfectly with the savory meats. Stir in 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
Now, it’s time to let this concoction work its magic in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and pop your baking dish inside for about an hour. If you’re feeling particularly laid-back, you can also consider using a crockpot. Just set it on low for 3-4 hours and let it simmer away while you tackle other BBQ tasks.
As the beans bake, your kitchen will start to smell like a backyard cookout—seriously, is there anything better? When the time is up, give them a good stir and taste for seasoning. You might find that they need a little more sweetness or salt, depending on your palate.
Enjoy those BBQ beans alongside your favorite grilled meats, and prepare for compliments. You might just become the BBQ bean champion of your neighborhood.
Easy BBQ Beans Substitutions & Variations
You’ve got your BBQ beans ready to go, but let’s talk about how you can make this dish even more your own.
Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or try adding sausage for extra flavor.
Want a vegetarian twist? Use a mix of black beans and kidney beans instead of meat.
For a spicy kick, toss in jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
You can also experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
Don’t forget to adjust the ketchup and vinegar to suit your taste.
The possibilities are endless—get creative!
What to Serve with Easy BBQ Beans
Serving Easy BBQ Beans can elevate your meal, and there are plenty of delicious options to pair with them.
I love serving them alongside grilled meats like chicken or ribs for that classic BBQ vibe. A fresh coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the dish’s richness.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll whip up some cornbread to soak up the tangy flavors. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette works wonders, too.
Whatever you choose, the sweet and tangy beans will shine through, making your meal unforgettable. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Easy BBQ Beans, there are a few additional tips that can enhance the dish.
First, feel free to experiment with different ground meats—turkey or chicken work great too!
For a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
If you like a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, depending on your taste.
Finally, let the beans rest for a bit after baking; the flavors meld beautifully as they cool.
Enjoy your delicious creation!