Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into a flavor explosion with these irresistible Southern Barbecue Baked Beans! Imagine a dish so rich, so perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, that your guests will be begging for the recipe before they've even finished their first bite. This isn't just another side dish – it's a culinary journey through the heart of Southern comfort food that will elevate any barbecue, potluck, or family dinner to legendary status.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans of navy beans
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Drain and rinse the navy beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess sodium and starch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, diced onion, diced bell pepper, garlic powder, and mustard. Gently stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season the bean mixture with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the bean mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive moisture loss and ensure even cooking.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to caramelize and develop a rich, slightly crispy texture.
- Remove from the oven and let the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving, which allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Bean Selection: Always use high-quality navy beans and drain them thoroughly to ensure the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Sauce Secret: Choose a robust, smoky barbecue sauce to give your beans deep, complex flavor. Homemade or premium store-bought sauces work best.
- Caramelization is Key: The final 15 minutes uncovered are crucial – this is when your beans develop that irresistible slightly crispy top and rich, concentrated flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These beans actually taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance and reheat.
- Customize Your Heat: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños if you want to kick up the spice level.
- Garnish Matters: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or green onions can add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, sweet beans.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
