Get ready to elevate your culinary game with the most mouthwatering, smoky baked beans recipe that will have your guests begging for seconds! This isn't just another side dish - this is a flavor-packed, hearty creation that combines the rich, robust flavors of black and kidney beans with a tantalizing smoky barbecue sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for summer cookouts, cozy winter dinners, or anytime you crave a dish that's both comforting and exciting!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure an oven-safe baking dish is ready.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Drain and rinse both black beans and kidney beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess sodium and starch.
- In the skillet with onions and garlic, add the drained beans, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the bean mixture to the oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure consistent cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive moisture loss and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, removing the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow the top to slightly caramelize and develop a rich, smoky crust.
- Remove from oven and let the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Bean Preparation: Always drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve texture.
- Sauté Secrets: Take your time caramelizing onions and garlic - this builds a deep flavor foundation for your beans.
- Paprika Power: Use high-quality smoked paprika for an authentic smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Foil Technique: Cover the baking dish initially to retain moisture, then uncover to create a delicious caramelized top.
- Resting Matters: Let the beans rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
- Customization: Feel free to add crispy bacon bits or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor complexity.
- Storage Tip: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
