Are you ready to transform ordinary canned beans into a mouthwatering side dish that'll have everyone begging for seconds? Our semi-homemade baked beans recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and gourmet flavor, turning a simple pantry staple into a crowd-pleasing sensation. With just a few extra ingredients and some culinary magic, you'll create a dish that tastes like it's been simmering for hours – but takes barely any effort at all!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- In a large mixing bowl, open and pour both 15 oz cans of baked beans, creating a smooth base for the recipe.
- Dice the half onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution and flavor throughout the beans.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- Add barbecue sauce, brown sugar, diced onions, crumbled bacon, and mustard to the beans, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the bean mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and have developed a slightly caramelized top.
- Remove from oven and let the beans rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with additional crumbled bacon or chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Start with a good brand of canned baked beans as your base. Look for beans with a rich, thick sauce for the best results.
- Bacon Matters: For maximum flavor, use thick-cut bacon and cook it until it's perfectly crisp. The rendered fat and crispy bits add incredible depth to the dish.
- Balance Your Flavors: The combination of barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and mustard creates a complex sweet-tangy profile. Taste and adjust these ingredients to your preference.
- Don't Overcook: While you want the beans to be bubbly and slightly caramelized, watch carefully to prevent burning. The last 10-15 minutes of baking are crucial for developing that perfect top layer.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the beans to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These beans actually taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance and reheat before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 15mg
