Delicious Smoked Baked Beans Recipe | Easy BBQ Side

Ever wondered how to make your summer cookout stand out? Try this amazing smoked baked beans recipe. It’s sure to wow your guests and match any barbecue perfectly.

This dish is a hit, with a 4.99 rating from 3,695 votes. It’s a sweet and savory mix that will quickly become your favorite barbecue side.

Based on Ree Drummond’s recipe, this dish combines bacon, onion, and bell pepper with spices and sauces. The result is a thick, syrupy bean dish that’s sweet and slightly spicy.

You can make this recipe in a smoker or the oven, whichever you prefer. It’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and heat levels. This way, you can make it uniquely yours.

Key Takeaways

• Smoked baked beans are a perfect complement to grilled meats
• The recipe has a 4.99 rating from 3,695 votes
• Can be cooked in a smoker, oven, or crockpot
• Customizable with various spices and add-ins
• Serves 12 and can be made ahead for convenience
• Leftovers can be stored for up to 7 days in the refrigerator
• Pairs well with a variety of grilled and fried foods

Introduction to Smoked Baked Beans

Smoked baked beans are a must-have for your BBQ. They bring a smoky flavor that makes everyone want more. Imagine the smell of bacon, onions, and peppers with sweet and tangy sauces. That’s what you get with this recipe.

This dish elevates traditional baked beans. It uses honey BBQ sauce, ketchup, and mustard for a deep flavor. Diced jalapenos add heat, while pineapple tidbits bring a sweet surprise.

You can cook these beans in two ways. Smoke them for 2-4 hours at 225°F or bake at 350°F for 1-2 hours. Either way, they’re a perfect match for any BBQ.

Why Smoked Baked Beans are a BBQ Essential

Smoked baked beans are a top pick for BBQ lovers, scoring a 4.50 rating from 38 votes. They’re a crowd-pleaser that goes great with grilled meats. This dish is a must-have for any cookout.

Flavor Enhancement through Smoking

Smoking baked beans brings out their rich taste. Cooking them slow at 225-250°F for 3-4 hours blends flavors perfectly. Woods like hickory, mesquite, or cherry add a smoky touch, making the beans sweet and rich.

Perfect Complement to Grilled Meats

Smoked baked beans are a great match for grilled meats. Their mix of sweet and savory flavors complements the charred taste of ribs, chicken, or other BBQ dishes. The recipe uses BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and yellow mustard for a perfect balance of flavors.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal

Smoked baked beans are loved at any gathering. You can use different beans like butter beans, kidney beans, or baby lima beans to suit everyone’s taste. They’re also great for vegetarians, making them a hit at BBQs and cookouts.

Ingredients for Smoked Baked Beans Recipe

Get ready to make a delicious BBQ side dish with these smoked baked beans ingredients. This recipe makes 12 servings and blends classic tastes with a smoky twist.

Begin with 4 cans (21 oz each) of original baked beans. Add 6 slices of thick-cut peppered bacon for a savory crunch. Then, dice 1 yellow onion and 3 jalapenos for heat and flavor. If you like milder beans, use 1 green bell pepper instead of jalapenos.

The sauce is key to this recipe. Mix 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce with 1 cup of ketchup. Add 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar for sweetness, and balance it with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. Don’t forget 2 tablespoons each of Dijon mustard and molasses for depth and richness.

Add extra flavor with 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and a dash of spices. Use 1 teaspoon each of onion powder, chili powder, garlic powder, and BBQ rub. A pinch of red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon) adds a subtle kick. With these ingredients, you’re all set to make a delicious smoky side that’ll be the highlight of your BBQ.

Choosing the Right Beans for Smoking

Finding the perfect beans for your smoked baked beans is key. Let’s look at the best options to make your BBQ side dish a hit.

Types of Beans Suitable for Smoking

Great northern beans are a top pick for smoked baked beans. They have a mild taste that soaks up smoke nicely. For a traditional taste, use pork and beans. They’re already seasoned and ready to get even more flavor from your favorite ingredients.

Canned vs. Dried Beans Debate

Canned beans are easy and reliable. A recipe using 56 ounces of Bush’s baked beans can feed up to 10 people. Dried beans need soaking but let you control the texture and taste. Think about how much time you have when deciding – canned beans save a lot of cooking time.

Flavor Considerations

Using different beans adds depth to your dish. Add 28 ounces of kidney beans to your mix. Unseasoned beans let you play with flavors. Try barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and even root beer for something new. Remember, the beans will soak up smoky flavors, so start with a good base.

Preparing Your Smoker for Baked Beans

Are you ready to take your BBQ to the next level with smoked baked beans? A key step is setting up your smoker right. Begin by heating it to 250°F. This temperature is perfect for slow cooking, letting the beans soak up that smoky flavor.

For the best taste, pick mild or fruit wood chips. Pecan, cherry, or apple wood are great for baked beans. They add a sweet touch without taking over the dish. But, skip mesquite wood because its strong taste can overwhelm the beans.

Before starting, ensure your smoker is clean and ready. This is vital for the best flavor and performance. Electric smokers need time to heat up and reach the right temperature.

Use a smoker-safe dish for your beans. A cast-iron skillet or a disposable aluminum pan are good choices. They spread heat evenly and can handle the smoke.

With your smoker ready and temperature in check, you’re all set to make delicious smoked baked beans. This recipe takes about 2 hours at 225°F. You’ll end up with a dish full of flavor and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Smoked Baked Beans Recipe

Are you ready to take your BBQ to the next level? Let’s make the ultimate smoked baked beans recipe. This dish combines rich flavors with a smoky twist, ideal for any cookout.

Preparing the Bean Mixture

Begin by draining 2 cans of Great Northern and Navy beans. In a big bowl, mix these with a diced small onion. This mix adds depth to the flavor and texture.

Adding Flavoring Ingredients

Next, create the delicious sauce. Mix 2 cups of ketchup, 1 cup of dark brown sugar, 1 cup of beer, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Whiskey Bent BBQ Old Fashioned rub. Pour this over the beans and mix well.

Smoking Process and Timing

Put your bean mix in a smoker-safe dish. For extra taste, add 3 slices of cooked bacon on top. Set your smoker to 220°F. Smoking takes about 2 hours. Stir now and then to cook evenly and prevent sticking.

Your smoked baked beans are done when they reach your perfect consistency. Serve them with grilled meats for a full BBQ spread. This recipe makes 12 servings, great for big events or leftovers.

Best Wood Choices for Smoking Baked Beans

Choosing the right smoking wood can change your dish from good to great. Different hardwood chips bring unique flavors to your baked beans. Let’s look at the top choices for smoking baked beans.

Mild or fruit woods are great for smoking baked beans. Pecan is a top pick, adding a subtle, nutty taste. Apple, cherry, or hickory are also excellent choices. They add flavor without taking over.

Here’s a breakdown of recommended wood types and their flavor profiles:

When picking your smoking wood, think about what other meats you’re smoking. This can make all your BBQ taste great together. For a perfectly crispy chicken cutlet, use apple or cherry wood for a nice match.

Avoid strong woods like mesquite, as they can mask the beans’ flavor. Try different hardwood chips to find the best smoke flavor for your baked beans.

Secret Ingredients to Elevate Your Smoked Baked Beans

Want to make your smoked baked beans even better? Let’s check out some secret flavor boosters and regional twists. These will make your dish the star at any BBQ.

Unexpected Flavor Enhancers

Surprise your taste buds with these unique ingredients:

• Smoked paprika: Add 1 tablespoon for a smoky depth
• Chipotle chili powder: Use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon for a spicy kick
• Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons balance sweetness with tanginess
• Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon adds complexity

Regional Variations and Add-ins

Different regions add their own special touch to baked beans:

Try these regional flavors or mix your own special blend. Add a bit of coffee for richness or your favorite BBQ rub for extra zing. With these secrets, your smoked baked beans will be the hit of your next cookout!

Balancing Sweet and Savory in Smoked Baked Beans

Creating the perfect smoked baked beans is all about finding the right mix of sweet and savory. The right flavor can make this classic BBQ side dish unforgettable. Let’s dive into how to get that amazing taste that keeps people coming back.

Begin with Bush’s Vegetarian Baked Beans for less sugar. This lets you control the sweetness better. Add brown sugar bit by bit, tasting as you go. For a savory touch, mix in bacon and smoked sausage. These add a rich, smoky flavor that goes well with the sweetness.

For a boost, try these unique additions:

• Crushed pineapple for a tropical twist
• Steak sauce for depth
• Mustard for tang
• Ketchup for tomato sweetness

Adjust the taste as you cook. If the beans are too sweet, add vinegar or more mustard. For more savory flavor, use more bacon or a bit of Worcestershire sauce.

Smoking your beans for 2 to 2.5 hours at 250°F makes the flavors better. This slow cooking brings out a perfect mix of sweet and savory. It makes a dish that goes great with any BBQ.

“The secret to great smoked baked beans lies in the balance. Don’t be afraid to adjust and taste as you go!”

With these tips, you’ll get the hang of balancing flavors in your smoked baked beans. Try different mixes and ingredients to find your ideal sweet and savory blend.

Troubleshooting Common Smoked Baked Beans Issues

Smoking baked beans can bring up unique cooking challenges. Let’s look at ways to fix texture issues and adjust flavors. This way, your smoked beans will always be perfect.

Dealing with Dryness

Dryness is a common problem with smoked baked beans. If your beans get too thick, add a bit of liquid. Use bean juice, broth, or water. You want them to be just right, not too thick or too thin.

Adjusting Flavors Mid-Smoke

It’s important to adjust flavors as you smoke beans. Taste them often and add more seasoning or sauce if needed. Flavors get stronger as the beans cook, so adjust slowly. For a smoky taste, try smoked paprika or a bit of liquid smoke.

Preventing Burning

To stop beans from burning, stir them now and then while smoking. This helps cook them evenly and avoids hot spots. If your beans are under meat, watch out for drippings. They add flavor but can make your beans greasy. Use a barrier to keep beans from getting scorched.

Remember, getting good at smoked baked beans takes practice. Don’t worry if things don’t go right at first. With these tips, you’ll soon be a pro at smoking beans.

Serving Suggestions for Smoked Baked Beans

Your smoked baked beans are ready to be the highlight of your next BBQ. Let’s look at some ways to make them look great and taste even better.

For the best taste, serve your beans hot or warm. They should be between 140°F to 160°F. After smoking, let them rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend and makes them easier to handle.

For a homey feel, serve the beans right from the pot. Use a cast-iron skillet or a ceramic dish. Add some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for color. Top with crispy bacon bits for extra taste and texture.

Think about having a BBQ sides bar where guests can serve themselves. Offer toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or shredded cheese. Make sure to have napkins and utensils ready.

If you’re feeding a big group, keep the beans warm in a slow cooker on low. This way, you can make the dish ahead of time. It keeps it at the perfect temperature for your event.

Pairing Smoked Baked Beans with BBQ Mains

Smoked baked beans are great with many BBQ dishes. They go well with classic meats and vegetarian options. This makes them a hit at any BBQ.

Complementary meats

Smoked baked beans are perfect with pulled pork, brisket, and ribs. Their smoky sweetness matches the rich flavors of these meats. For something lighter, pair them with grilled chicken or turkey burgers.

The beans are full of protein from red kidney and cannellini beans. They add nutrition to your meal.

Vegetarian pairing options

For vegetarians, smoked baked beans can be a main dish. Add grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms. Plant-based burgers or smoked tofu also go well with these beans.

Eating 1 1/2 cups of beans a day can boost your health. This dish is a great choice for any diet.

These beans are great for big or small gatherings. The recipe makes 4-6 servings but can be made in larger quantities. Leftovers keep well for 5-6 days, perfect for meal prep or quick dinners.

Serve your beans with hamburgers, hot dogs, or BBQ sandwiches for a classic BBQ. They’re versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.