Backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon are a savory, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to whip up. They bring together a perfect blend of smoky and sweet flavors, making them the ultimate side for any gathering. Plus, they’re kid-approved and ideal for meal prep!
Table of Contents
The Ultimate Backyard Barbecue Baked Beans with Bacon
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
These baked beans are not just a side dish; they’re an experience. The combination of tender beans with crispy bacon creates a delightful texture contrast. The rich barbecue sauce and spices make every bite bursting with flavor, perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to create the best backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon:
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion flakes
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 (28 ounce) can baked beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ of a (10 ounce) can Ro-Tel diced tomatoes & green chilies, drained
- 3 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Beans
Follow these easy steps to make your backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, ketchup, water, mustard, vinegar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the baked beans, pinto beans, cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes to the sauce mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the bacon pieces in a single layer over the top of the beans.
- Bake for 1 to 1½ hours until the beans are bubbling and the bacon is rendered to perfection.
- Let cool for 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans
Adjusting the Bacon
If you’re a bacon lover, feel free to adjust the quantity! Using 6 slices will create an extra crispy and indulgent topping. The more bacon, the merrier!
The Role of Liquid Smoke
Liquid smoke adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste. It’s a secret ingredient that makes your baked beans taste like they’ve been slow-cooked over a smoky barbecue. A little goes a long way!
Variations and Additions (Optional)
For a twist, consider adding jalapeños for heat or some diced bell peppers for a pop of color. You could also try incorporating different beans, such as black beans for a unique flavor.
Baking and Serving Your Beans
Oven Temperature and Baking Time
Ensure your oven is set to 350°F for even cooking. Bake your beans for 1 to 1½ hours until they’re bubbling and aromatic. This timeframe allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the beans cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling time helps the flavors settle, making each bite even more delicious. Serve them alongside your favorite grilled meats for a perfect summer meal!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon?
You will need barbecue sauce, ketchup, water, mustard, vinegar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion flakes, cayenne pepper, three types of beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and bacon.
How do I make backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon step by step?
Start by mixing the sauces and spices, then add the beans and tomatoes. Pour into a baking dish, top with bacon, and bake at 350°F for 1 to 1½ hours.
Can I make backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just allow extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How should I store leftover backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 3 months.
Related Recipes to try
- Broccoli Cauliflower Salad With Bacon
- Sun Dried Tomato Spinach Bacon Chicken
- Tuscan White Bean Skillet
- Rice And Beans Meal Prep
Conclusion
In conclusion, making backyard barbecue baked beans with bacon is not only simple but incredibly rewarding. These beans are perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests. For more delicious ideas, feel free to check out Pinterest for a variety of recipes that will complement your meal perfectly!
Delicious Backyard Barbecue Baked Beans with Bacon
Equipment
- large bowl
- whisk
- 8×8-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup water
- 1 Tablespoon spicy brown mustard
- 1 Tablespoon cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon onion flakes
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 28 ounce can baked beans
- 1 15 ounce can pinto beans drained and rinsed
- 1 15 ounce can cannelloni beans drained and rinsed
- ½ of a 10 ounce can Ro-Tel diced tomatoes & green chillies drained
- 3 slices thick-cut bacon cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, ketchup, water, mustard, vinegar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion flakes, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the baked beans, pinto beans, cannelloni beans, and drained diced tomatoes to the sauce mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the bean mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the bacon pieces evenly in a single layer over the top of the beans.
- Bake for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the beans are bubbling and the bacon is crispy and rendered.
- Allow the baked beans to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- This recipe omits bratwurst and chopped onion found in the original version. Liquid smoke is highly recommended for enhanced flavor. The bacon quantity can be adjusted to your preference.
