Baked Beans Recipe

This is the best baked beans recipe and it takes minutes to prepare. It is the perfect summer side dish and tastes amazing. Anytime I am hosting a party, I always make this simple ingredient recipe. It is also makes the perfect 4th of July Side Dishes or for your next potluck.

We even have an easy crockpot Baked Bean recipe that is super easy if you prefer using the slow cooker. You can even make Instant Pot Baked Beans for a quick and easy side dish that taste amazing.

Why This Recipe Works

Take your canned baked beans to the next level with this recipe. The combination of the staple ingredients has the perfect sweetness and savory flavor that the whole family loves.

I love that the ingredients can be changed to what you prefer or have on hand. Make this budget friendly side dish for your next BBQ party.

Ingredients

• Cans Baked Beans – Feel free to use any type of baked beans
• Barbecue Sauce – Use store bought or make Homemade Barbecue Sauce
• Brown Sugar – If you are out, see The Best Brown Sugar Substitutes
• Smoked Paprika – You can also use regular paprika
• Garlic Powder – See The Best Garlic Powder Substitute
• Red Onion – We love the flavor of red onion, but white onion or yellow onion will work
• Green Bell Pepper – Chop with vegetable chopper into bite size pieces
• Bacon – You can prepare bacon ahead of time

Scroll to the bottom of the post to see the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.

Variations Ideas

• Canned Baked Beans – You can use different flavors or brands of canned beans. Feel free to also use pork and beans for this recipe.
• Mustard – The addition of a tablespoon of mustard or Dijon Mustard can be added. We have even added in tomato sauce, ketchup and BBQ sauce for added flavor.
• Maple Syrup – Maple syrup is a great addition to this recipe. You can also use cup molasses, Worcestershire Sauce, or Apple Cider Vinegar.
• Ground Beef – For a filling and hearty dish, add in 1 lb of cooked ground beef instead of the chopped bacon.

How to Make Baked Beans

Step 1 – Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the slices of bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through and slightly crispy.  Move the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to cool and drain grease. 

Step 2 – Add the diced onions and pepper peppers to the skillet with the bacon grease and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and tender. Remove from heat.

Step 3 – In a large bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, paprika and garlic powder. 

Step 4 – Stir in the baked beans and the sautéed onions and pepper. Combine the liquid together with the beans before pouring into baking dish.

Step 5 – Pour the mixture in a casserole dish (I used a 3 quart dish) and bake for 2 hours. 

Step 6 – When the beans are baking, chop the cooked bacon.  Reserve a small amount of chopped bacon for the topping and stir the remaining ingredients into the baked beans. Cook for 45-60 more minutes until the sauce of your beans cooks down and simmer to your desired consistency. 

• Step 7 – Remove from the oven, let the beans set for 5-10 minutes.  Then serve topped with the reserved chopped bacon, ½ teaspoon salt and black pepper and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Slice of Bacon – We love the addition of the crispy bacon added to this side dish. We like to prepare ahead of time to save this easy step.
• Cooking Time – Cooking time will vary based on the oven and the consistency you prefer.
• Rest Baked Beans – After baking the baked beans, allow the beans to rest. We recommend covering with aluminum foil while the baked beans thickens.
• Chopping Veggies – When preparing the veggies for this recipe, make sure to chop in about the same size pieces. This helps to cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions

These baked beans are the perfect side dish recipe for your next BBQ or anytime you grill. It is perfect to serve with grill taco burgers, hot dogs, grilled steak and grilled chicken thigh recipes.