The aroma of BBQ Baked Beans simmering in the oven evokes memories of summer cookouts and family gatherings. This hearty dish combines all the rich, smoky flavors you crave, takes a few hours to prepare, and is sure to impress your guests. The creamy textures of the beans paired with the sweetness of brown sugar and tanginess from apple cider vinegar create a perfect balance that turns a simple side into a standout.
This recipe is perfect for gatherings, summer barbecues, or cozy family dinners. You can prepare it ahead of time, and the flavors only get better as they sit. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for a quick reheat on busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of smoky bacon and ground beef enhances flavor depth.
- The slow-baking method creates a wonderfully thick and hearty texture.
- Make-ahead friendly, allowing for easy meal prep.
- The sweet and tangy sauce complements any grilled dish.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients for your BBQ Baked Beans:
For the Beans
- 1 1/2 cups dried great northerners, soaked overnight in the refrigerator
- 5 cups water (plus more for cooking beans)
For the Meats
- 4 slices thick bacon, chopped
- 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
For the Sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon for the thick bacon.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Great northern beans can be swapped with navy beans.
- Ground beef can be replaced with ground turkey.
- Use apple cider for apple juice.
- Liquid smoke is optional for a milder flavor.
How to Make It
Start creating delicious BBQ Baked Beans with these simple steps.
Soak the Beans
Soak your beans overnight in water in the refrigerator the day before preparing your BBQ Baked Beans.
Cook the Beans
Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a large pot. Add fresh water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Bring to a low simmer and cook for 1 hour, or until the beans are just tender. Drain the beans and save 2 cups of this cooking water for later use.
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Cook Bacon, Onion & Ground Beef
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon and onion until the bacon is crispy. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Combine and Assemble
Add the cooked beans to the Dutch oven. Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, salt, dry mustard, vinegar, apple juice, BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, and black pepper. Add enough water so that the liquids are about 2 inches above the beans.
Bake Covered
Cover the Dutch oven and place in the oven. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F and bake for 2 hours.
Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the lid and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. The liquid should be thick and the beans fully cooked. If needed, add the reserved 2 cups of water and continue baking for another 30 minutes, or until the baked beans reach your desired consistency.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Yes, freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure beans are soaked properly for even cooking.
- Use a Dutch oven for optimal heat retention.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before the final bake.
- For extra flavor, let the dish rest overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled meats at your next barbecue.
- Pair with cornbread for a comforting meal.
- Use as a filling side dish at holiday gatherings.
