If you're looking for the ultimate barbecue side dish, these Southern baked beans are sweet, smoky, savory, and loaded with flavor. Made with bacon, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and tender baked beans, this easy recipe is perfect for cookouts, potlucks, family dinners, and holiday gatherings.
These homemade baked beans have the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness while requiring minimal effort. Whether you're serving burgers, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, or hot dogs, this classic side dish always disappears fast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make
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Perfect for cookouts
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Sweet and smoky flavor
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Great make-ahead side dish
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Family-friendly
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Perfect for potlucks and holidays
Ingredients
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2 (28-ounce) cans baked beans
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8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
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½ cup barbecue sauce
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⅓ cup brown sugar
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1 small onion, diced
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1 tablespoon yellow mustard
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Southern Baked Beans
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2
In a large bowl combine:
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Baked beans
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Bacon
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Barbecue sauce
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Brown sugar
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Onion
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Mustard
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Garlic powder
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Black pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 3
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
Step 4
Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until hot, bubbly, and slightly caramelized around the edges.
Step 5
Allow baked beans to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Baked Beans
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Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor.
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Add a little smoked paprika for more smokiness.
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Let the beans rest before serving.
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Make them a day ahead for even better flavor.
What to Serve with Southern Baked Beans
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked beans ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare and refrigerate up to one day before baking.
Can I freeze baked beans?
Yes. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
What beans are best for baked beans?
Canned baked beans work best because they're already seasoned and tender.
Final Thoughts
These Southern baked beans are rich, smoky, sweet, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a holiday dinner, this classic side dish belongs on the menu.