Description
Smoky, sweet, and loaded with bold flavors—these Texas-style baked beans are the ultimate BBQ side dish! Packed with crispy bacon, tangy barbecue sauce, and a touch of spice, they pair perfectly with grilled meats or as a hearty standalone dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28 oz each) baked beans, drained
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven – Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Cook the Bacon – In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
3️⃣ Sauté Vegetables – In the same skillet, sauté onion, red bell pepper, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4️⃣ Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine baked beans, sautéed vegetables, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir well.
5️⃣ Bake – Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with cooked bacon, and bake for 45-50 minutes until thick and bubbling.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy – Let cool slightly before serving. Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or cornbread!
Notes
- For extra smokiness, use hickory-smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke.
- Swap red bell pepper for jalapeños for a spicy kick!
- Can be made a day ahead—just reheat before serving.
- Works well in a slow cooker—cook on low for 4-6 hours.
