Description of this recipe
These Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans are a flavor explosion in every bite. This isn’t your average canned bean recipe; it’s a soulful concoction that combines the comforting sweetness of brown sugar and ketchup with a fiery kick from hot sauce, all rounded out by the smoky depth of bacon and Worcestershire sauce. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard barbecue, a potluck dinner, or simply as a hearty side dish, these baked beans are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The use of pork and beans as a base provides a familiar, creamy texture, while the addition of fresh aromatics like onion and garlic elevates the dish to new heights of flavor complexity.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll love these Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans because they’re incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Forget spending hours simmering beans from scratch – this recipe utilizes canned pork and beans as a shortcut, allowing you to whip up a delicious side dish in under an hour. The balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors creates a symphony on your palate, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Plus, the recipe is incredibly forgiving; you can easily adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your spice preference, or add extra bacon for an even richer flavor. These beans are also perfect for meal prepping – they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. But most of all, these baked beans are a comforting, satisfying dish that will bring a smile to your face.
Ingredients:
- 2 – 28 oz cans Pork N Beans
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1-2 drops of Liquid smoke (optional)
- 6-8 slices bacon, cut into pieces
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the beans will cook evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is preheating, you can prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Open the cans of pork and beans and pour off approximately half of the standing liquid from each can. This helps to prevent the baked beans from becoming too watery during baking, concentrating the flavors for a richer, more satisfying dish. Don’t discard the liquid entirely, as it contributes to the overall moisture and creaminess of the beans.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and liquid smoke (if using) until thoroughly combined. This mixture forms the base of the sweet and spicy sauce that will permeate the beans. Ensure that the brown sugar is fully dissolved to avoid any gritty texture. The liquid smoke adds a subtle smoky depth that enhances the overall flavor profile, but it can be omitted if you prefer a less intense smoky taste.
Step 4: Heat a large, 12-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook until they are partially done but still slightly soft. You don’t want the bacon to be completely crispy at this stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Step 5: Add the diced onion to the bacon fat remaining in the skillet and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Cooking the onion and garlic in the bacon fat infuses them with a savory flavor that adds depth to the baked beans.
Step 6: Add the pork and beans to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and mix until everything is evenly combined. Ensure that the sauce is distributed throughout the beans, coating each one for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Sprinkle the partially cooked bacon pieces over the top of the bean mixture. This adds a layer of smoky, savory goodness that will infuse the beans as they bake.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the beans are thick and bubbly. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken to a rich, glossy consistency. Check the beans periodically during baking and stir gently to prevent sticking.
Step 9: After baking for 1 hour, switch the oven to broil and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Keep a close eye on the beans during broiling to prevent burning. Broiling the bacon at the end adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft, creamy beans.
Step 10: Remove the baked beans from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for garnish. The parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that complements the richness of the beans. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Barbecue favorites: Serve alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or chicken for a classic barbecue feast.
- Comfort food classics: Pair with meatloaf, pulled pork sandwiches, or mac and cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Breakfast or brunch: Add a scoop of baked beans to your breakfast plate with eggs, bacon, and toast for a hearty start to the day.
- Vegetarian options: Serve with grilled tofu or veggie burgers for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Tips:
- For a smokier flavor, use smoked bacon or add an extra drop or two of liquid smoke.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your spice preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
- If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the beans on the stovetop for a few minutes after baking.
- These baked beans can be made ahead of time and reheated. They actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving
Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 mg per serving
Conclusion
These Sweet and Spicy Baked Beans are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade baked beans!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet instead of bacon fat for sautéing the onion and garlic. You might also consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor that the bacon would have provided.
Q2: Can I use different types of beans?
A: While pork and beans are the traditional base for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of beans if you prefer. Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, or even a mix of different beans would work well. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the type of beans used.
Q3: How do I store leftover baked beans?
A: Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze these baked beans?
A: Yes, these baked beans freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q5: What if I don’t have liquid smoke?
A: Liquid smoke adds a subtle smoky flavor to the beans, but it’s not essential. If you don’t have it on hand, you can simply omit it. You might also consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor, or substitute it with a dash of chipotle powder for a different kind of smoky heat.
