Southern Baked Beans

Southern Baked Beans are a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet side dish that’s a staple at barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings across the South. Made with canned beans, brown sugar, smoky bacon, and tangy barbecue sauce, this classic dish is simple to prepare and full of bold, comforting flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with sweet, smoky, and savory flavors
• Perfect make-ahead side dish for cookouts or holidays
• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
• Easy to double for a crowd
• Bakes up thick and hearty with minimal effort

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned pork and beans or baked beans
• Thick-cut bacon
• Onion
• Garlic
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Yellow mustard
• Ketchup
• Barbecue sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Salt and black pepper

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of the bacon fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the chopped onion in the bacon fat until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine pork and beans, cooked onions and garlic, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, ketchup, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and crumbled bacon. Stir to mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet.
6. Bake uncovered for 45–60 minutes, or until thickened and bubbling.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people as a side dish.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Meatier Version: Add ground beef or sausage for a main-dish twist.
• Spicy Baked Beans: Stir in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and use vegetarian beans; add smoked paprika for flavor.
• Maple Beans: Swap molasses for pure maple syrup for a New England-inspired flavor.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.

storage/reheating

Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Baked beans also freeze well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Southern baked beans ahead of time?

Yes, they can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving or reheated when ready.

Do I have to use pork and beans?

No, you can also use navy beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans—just adjust seasonings accordingly.

What makes these beans “Southern”?

The signature sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor profile with bacon and molasses is what gives them a Southern twist.

Can I skip the bacon?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add a bit of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for depth.

Are baked beans gluten-free?

Check the labels on your barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce—some brands may contain gluten.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just use a larger baking dish or divide between two pans.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook them ahead of time before using them in the recipe.

Why do my beans turn out runny?

Make sure to bake uncovered and allow the sauce to thicken. Letting them rest after baking also helps.

Can I make this in a Dutch oven?

Absolutely. A Dutch oven works great and can go from stovetop to oven in one pot.

What can I serve with Southern baked beans?

They’re perfect with barbecue meats, hot dogs, burgers, fried chicken, or grilled veggies.

Conclusion

Southern Baked Beans are the kind of classic comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or need a reliable potluck side, this rich, flavorful dish is always a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of baking time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing side that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen.

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