Easy Baked Beans Recipe

Sweet, smoky baked beans are the best side dish for a backyard barbecue, but you’ll love this baked beans recipe any time of year!

baked beans served in a casserole dish with a wooden spoon

There’s something about baked beans that just screams summertime. I’m not exactly sure why, because they’re made on the stove or in the oven, and there’s not really a season for canned beans like there is for corn-on-the-cob and strawberries.

Maybe it’s the fact that they’re often served alongside grilled meats, or maybe it’s because they’re the perfect cookout food. Whatever the reason, we can all agree that baked beans are a summertime staple!

top down image of baked beans in a casserole dish

This baked beans recipe is my go-to whenever I’m hosting a backyard barbecue. The sweet and smoky flavor is always a hit, and they’re so easy to make! Plus, they can be made ahead of time, which means one less thing to worry about on the day of the party.

You may be wondering why this baked bean recipe starts with baked beans. Why not a can of navy beans? Well, it’s simple—when you start with beans that are already infused with flavor, you end up with even better baked beans! In fact, I’m pretty sure these will be the best baked beans you’ve ever eaten!

Ingredients

See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Bacon
Onion – A standard white or yellow onion is perfect!
Bell pepper
Garlic
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Apple cider vinegar
Barbecue sauce – Use your favorite brand.
Ketchup
Dijon mustard
Brown sugar – I prefer dark brown sugar because it has a stronger molasses flavor, but light brown sugar works too.
Baked beans
Salt and fresh ground pepper

How to Make Baked Beans

1. Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350ºF and get out a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Bacon and Veggies

Set a large sauté pan or pot over medium heat and cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Remove it with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels, then add the onion and bell pepper to the pan with the bacon drippings. Cook until the veggies are softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the rest of the ingredients except the beans to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for about 3 minutes, then add the beans (don’t drain them!). Season to taste and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Once it starts to boil, turn off the heat.

4. Bake

Pour the bean mixture into the baking dish (or a Dutch oven) and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how thick you want the sauce. Let the beans rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving; the sauce will thicken a bit as the beans cool.

How to Store Leftover Baked Beans

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days. You can serve them cold, simmer them on the stove over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave.

What to Serve With Baked Beans

Baked beans are the perfect side dish for any summertime meal! Serve them alongside grilled chicken, hot dogs, or burgers, with other classic cookout sides like potato salad, macaroni salad, coleslaw, and strawberry pretzel salad.

You can also enjoy baked beans the British way—on a piece of toast!

serving of baked beans in a white bowl with a silver spoon

FAQs

What type of beans are baked beans?

There are many different types of baked beans, but the most common type is made with navy beans. Other popular varieties include kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans.

How do you make baked beans tastier?

There are many ways to make baked beans tastier! One way is to add some bacon or salt pork. You can also add onions, garlic, or green peppers for some extra flavor. Finally, don’t forget the spices! A little salt, pepper, and paprika will go a long way. This recipe does all of these things for maximum flavor!

How can you thicken baked beans?

If you find that your canned baked beans are too thin, you can leave them in the oven longer. The longer they bake, the more liquid will evaporate, giving you a thicker sauce. Keep in mind, though, that the sauce will thicken a bit when the beans cool.

Can baked beans be frozen?

Baked beans can be frozen, but they may not taste as good as fresh. If you do choose to freeze them, thaw them completely, then reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.