Description
Take your classic baked beans to the next level with flavorful additions that create a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory goodness. Ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or a comforting weeknight meal, these beans will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans (any brand)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 tablespoons molasses (for depth and richness)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Bacon and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Add diced onions and cook until softened and fragrant.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine baked beans, brown sugar, maple syrup, molasses, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and barbecue sauce. Add the cooked bacon and onions, mixing well.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the beans cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Extra savory: A splash of soy sauce can deepen the umami flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Baked beans, BBQ side dish, smoky beans, comfort food, easy baked beans