Southern Baked Beans are a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering. This easy-to-make recipe takes just about an hour from start to finish and combines savory ground beef with sweet and tangy beans, making it a crowd-pleaser. The rich, smoky taste is a surefire way to get everyone reaching for seconds.
This recipe is perfect for family barbecues, potlucks, or casual dinners with friends. It’s a wonderful dish to prep in advance; just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a well-balanced taste.
- The dish comes together quickly in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
- It’s a hearty side that can easily become the star of the meal.
- Baking enhances the flavors, giving a delightful texture contrast.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these Southern Baked Beans.
For the Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
- 1 sweet onion, finely diced
- 1 lb ground beef
For the Sauce
- 4 (22 oz) cans Bush’s Southern Pit Barbecue Baked Beans
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 4 tsp yellow mustard
Note: Use light brown sugar if desired.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey or sausage for beef
- Apple cider vinegar for Worcestershire sauce
- Homemade baked beans as a base
- Honey or maple syrup for brown sugar
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to whip up your Southern Baked Beans.
Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
Sauté the vegetables
In an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, add the olive oil, green bell peppers, and sweet onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Brown the beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook and break up the meat until no longer pink.
Combine the ingredients
Add the baked beans, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard to the skillet. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Transfer if needed
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Bake
Transfer to the oven and bake for 45 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 3-4 minutes or bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Don’t skip the half-stir during baking for even flavor.
- Add bacon for an extra smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
- Serve alongside grilled meats at summer barbecues.
- Use as a hearty filling for baked potatoes.
