Lovingly called “Grandma’s Baked Beans” by my kids, my mom’s baked beans recipe features onion, bacon, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar.

Baked beans have long been a staple in many households, including ours, and are loved for their hearty flavor and perfect texture. Anymore, family gatherings and summer cookouts seem incomplete without this perfect side dish. Grandma’s beans are definitely a favorite recipe in our family!

Although many people like starting with dry beans such as navy beans, this easy recipe starts with traditional canned beans. Then onion, bacon, barbecue sauce, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar are added. Although you certainly don’t have to actually bake baked beans, it does help develop the flavor even further after cooking them on the stovetop.

What makes this baked bean recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste. Add a dash of hot sauce for heat. Add dijon or yellow mustard for tanginess. Saute some diced bell pepper alongside the onion and bacon. Experiment with different types of beans and sweeteners for variety.

Unsure of baked beans? Don’t knock ’em ’til you’ve tried ’em. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Your taste buds will thank you!

Grandma's Baked Beans Recipe {the Best BBQ Beans}

Ingredients

3-4 slices bacon
1/2 onion
1 large can (55 oz) Bush’s Original Baked Beans
1/2 cup KC Masterpiece Original Barbecue Sauce
3 tablespoons brown sugar
Oil for greasing casserole dish

Instructions for Baked Bean Recipe

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Chop the onion and cut the slices of bacon into pieces.

In a large pot over medium heat, fry the bacon 3-4 minutes.

Add the chopped onion to the bacon and cook 5-7 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and browned and the bacon is crisp.

Drain off most, but not all, of the bacon grease and add the can of beans to the bacon and onion.

Add the brown sugar and barbecue sauce and return beans just to a boil over medium heat.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes.

Place beans into a greased casserole dish and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until bubbly.

Enjoy!

Ideas for Customizing this Great Recipe

Add cooked ground beef or sliced hot dogs
Saute chopped bell pepper or jalapenos with the onion and bacon
Add a touch of dijon or yellow mustard
Substitute a bit of maple syrup for the brown sugar
Experiment with different canned beans and barbecue sauces

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make substitutions for any ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter option, or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile. Don’t like onions? Leave them out. This is a very versatile recipe.
Can I make this baked beans recipe ahead of time? Yes, indeed! In fact, the flavors have often developed even better by the next day. After cooking them on the stove, allow the beans to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the beans on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, or if you have the time, pour them into a greased baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes, until bubbly and heated through completely.
Are there any tips for enhancing flavor of baked beans? For an extra kick of flavor in your baked beans, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mix. You can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to find the perfect match for your taste buds.
Can I adjust the sweetness? Yes, you have full control over the sweetness of the dish. If you prefer sweeter baked beans, feel free to increase the amount of brown sugar used. Conversely, if you prefer a more savory flavor profile, you can reduce the amount of sugar or omit it altogether.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, leftover baked beans freeze wonderfully. Once the beans have cooled completely, transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to leave some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen on the stove or in the microwave.
How long do frozen baked beans last? Although baked beans can be frozen in an airtight container for up to six months, it’s best to use them within two or three months so they’re not mushy when reheated.
What’s the best way to reheat? Reheating baked beans is a breeze! Simply transfer the desired amount of beans to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe dish, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering, and heating in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking. Or, the best option in my opinion, for truly “baked” beans, pour them into a greased baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes, until bubbly and heated through completely.
Can baked beans be made in the slow cooker? Yes, these baked beans can be easily adapted for the crockpot. After cooking the onion and bacon, transfer them and all remaining ingredients into the slow cooker. Stir to combine beans well. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even distribution of flavors. Using a slow cooker is a convenient method that allows you to set it and forget it until the beans are ready to be enjoyed. This slow cooking process also allows the flavors to develop more deeply, resulting in deliciously rich and flavorful baked beans.

Pin It!