Favorite Baked Beans

Our Favorite Baked Beans recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for the perfect side dish at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for a comforting meal, these baked beans will steal the show. Their syrupy goodness comes from a mix of BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and chipotle chili powder that creates an irresistible taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon, zesty spices, and sweet notes delivers an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a hearty main course on its own.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat for a busy day; these beans taste even better the next day!
• Freezer Friendly: You can easily freeze leftovers for future enjoyment without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Favorite Baked Beans.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet (oven-safe)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet (oven-safe): This allows you to cook everything in one pan and bake it directly in the oven, minimizing cleanup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet while ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your baked beans.

Ingredients

Our absolute favorite baked beans recipe! They are syrupy and loaded with flavors of BBQ sauce, dijon, smoked paprika, and chipotle. Delish!

Ingredients:
– 2 sliced bacon, (diced)
– 1 small sweet onion, (diced)
– 1 bell pepper, (diced)
– 2 garlic cloves, (minced)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 TO 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 (22 ounce) cans baked beans (I love Bush’s Grillin’ Beans for this recipe)
– 2 slices bacon, for topping (optional)

How to Make Favorite Baked Beans

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your Favorite Baked Beans cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add the diced bacon.
* Cook until crispy and most of the fat is rendered.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic.
* Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
* Add smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper.
* Stir well and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Sauces

Mix in apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, dijon mustard, and brown sugar until fully combined.

Step 5: Add Baked Beans

Pour in the canned baked beans directly from their cans.
* Bring this mixture to a boil before turning off the heat.
* Taste your beans here; adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally add strips of bacon on top!

Step 6: Bake Your Beans

Transfer your skillet to the oven or pour into an oven-safe dish if needed.
* Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and syrupy.
* Let cool slightly before serving.

Step 7: Make Ahead & Freeze Tips

You can prepare these beans ahead of time by cooking them in advance and letting them cool completely before covering them.
* Store in the fridge overnight or freeze them for later use!

Enjoy every bite of these incredibly flavorful Favorite Baked Beans at your next meal!

How to Serve Favorite Baked Beans

Serving Favorite Baked Beans can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these beans are versatile and delicious. Here are some great serving suggestions to complement your dish.

As a Side Dish

• With Grilled Meats: Pair the baked beans with grilled chicken or ribs for a classic BBQ experience.
• With Cornbread: Serve alongside warm cornbread for a comforting and hearty meal.

In a Bowl

• As a Main Course: Enjoy them in a bowl topped with cheese, sour cream, and green onions for a filling main dish.
• Over Rice: Spoon the beans over steamed rice to create a satisfying and easy meal.

For Unique Dishes

• In Tacos: Use the baked beans as a flavorful filling for tacos, adding cheese and fresh veggies.
• On Toast: Spread them on toasted bread for a delightful twist on baked bean toast.

How to Perfect Favorite Baked Beans

To ensure your Favorite Baked Beans turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Beans: Choose high-quality canned beans like Bush’s Grillin’ Beans for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste the mixture before baking to adjust spices according to your preference for heat.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the beans to cool slightly after baking; this enhances their flavor as they set.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like jalapeños or different BBQ sauces for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Favorite Baked Beans

Pairing side dishes with your Favorite Baked Beans can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and balances the richness of the baked beans.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection offer great texture and flavor contrast.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad complements the syrupy nature of the beans well.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds an irresistible sweetness that pairs beautifully with baked beans.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: The creaminess of mac and cheese is a comforting side option that everyone loves.
6. Biscuits or Rolls: Soft bread products are perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce from the beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Favorite Baked Beans, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much heat: Cooking the beans on high heat can cause them to burn. Always cook on medium-low heat for even results.
• Skipping the taste test: Not tasting the beans before baking can lead to a bland dish. Always adjust seasonings to your preference.
• Overcrowding the skillet: If your skillet is too small, ingredients may not cook evenly. Use a larger pan or divide into batches.
• Neglecting storage: Storing baked beans improperly can affect freshness. Use airtight containers for best results.
• Not allowing time to cool: Serving right out of the oven can result in hot spots. Let the beans cool slightly before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the beans to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Favorite Baked Beans

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label and date your containers for easy organization.

Reheating Favorite Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Favorite Baked Beans.

Can I make these Favorite Baked Beans ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these beans a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just reheat when ready to serve.

What type of beans should I use?

Canned baked beans work best, but feel free to use your favorite brands like Bush’s Grillin’ Beans for added flavor.

How spicy are these Favorite Baked Beans?

The spice level depends on how much chipotle chili powder you add. Start with less if you prefer mild flavors.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different meats like sausage or change up the vegetables based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Favorite Baked Beans is a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors. It’s versatile enough for any meal and great for gatherings! Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices, and enjoy serving this delicious dish at your next event!