Root Beer Baked Beans are a fun and tasty twist on a classic side dish. Sweet and savory, these beans bring a unique flavor with the addition of root beer. They’re perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or any gathering. Everyone will love the delicious combination of flavors, and it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients you might already have at home. Root Beer Baked Beans are not only delicious, but they are also a great way to impress your friends and family. They’re a hearty side that pairs well with grilled meats, making them perfect for summer BBQs or cozy fall dinners. Plus, who can resist the charm of a dish that includes root beer?
How to Make Root Beer Baked Beans
Ingredients
- 3 bacon slices
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 16-ounce cans pork and beans
- 1/2 cup root beer (not diet)
- 1/4 cup smoky barbecue sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon hot sauce
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s perfectly crispy. Once done, transfer it to paper towels to drain, but don’t forget to save about 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the skillet. Crumble that crunchy bacon for later!
- In those delicious bacon drippings, sauté the diced onion over high heat for about 5 minutes, or until it’s tender and fragrant.
- In a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish, combine the sautéed onion, crumbled bacon, pork and beans, root beer, BBQ sauce, and a dash of hot sauce.
- Pop it into the oven and bake uncovered for 55 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the flavors really meld together.
- Enjoy these flavorful Root Beer Baked Beans as an irresistible side dish with your favorite grilled meats, or serve them up as a hearty addition to any meal!
How to Serve Root Beer Baked Beans
These Root Beer Baked Beans are best served warm. They make a fantastic side dish for burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. Pair them with cornbread for a classic and comforting meal. You can also serve them at potlucks or family gatherings—we’re sure they’ll be a hit!
How to Store Root Beer Baked Beans
If you have leftovers, let them cool and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Root Beer Baked Beans
- For extra flavor, use thick-cut bacon for a more robust taste.
- You can adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice preference.
- Try adding some chopped bell peppers or garlic for an extra kick.
Variation
Feel free to mix it up! You can add in some chopped jalapeños for spice or switch out the pork and beans for black beans for a different texture. Adding some brown sugar can give it an even sweeter flavor if you like it that way!
FAQs
Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
A: Yes, turkey bacon works too! Just note that it may not add as much flavor, so you might want to try adding a bit more seasoning.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Definitely! Use vegetarian bacon and swap the pork and beans for a can of your favorite beans, like kidney or navy beans.
