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Baked Beans

Kickstart your perfect smoky, sweet baked beans recipe with a flavor-packed twist that will leave you craving more. Discover the ultimate homemade dish.

4.0 · 3 reviewsRecipe card by Julie in TXEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 18, 2026
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Total time

—

Servings

4

Calories

369.2

Category

Sides

Smoky, sweet, and savory, these baked beans are the ultimate weeknight side dish or hearty main. With a rich barbecue sauce base, tender apples, and crispy bacon, this 15-minute prep recipe delivers deep, slow-cooked flavor in under two hours.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 2 barbecue sauce
  • 1/3 brown sugar
  • 1/4 golden raisin
  • 1/4 tart apple
  • 1/3 onion
  • 1/2 bacon

Method

  1. Drain pork and beans and place into oven-proof bowl.

  2. Chop onion and apples and add to beans.

  3. Also add Bar-B-Que sauce, brown sugar and rasins.

  4. Mix together and lay bacon strips on top.

  5. Place in covered grill and bake at 350 degrees for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Cook's notes

  • For extra smokiness, use hickory-smoked bacon and a touch of liquid smoke.
  • If you prefer less sweetness, reduce brown sugar to 1/4 cup.
  • Golden raisins plump up beautifully during baking—don't skip them.
  • Cover the grill or oven dish tightly for the first hour to keep beans moist.

Frequently asked

Can I use canned pork and beans instead of from scratch?

Yes! This recipe calls for draining canned pork and beans, so it's designed for convenience.

What type of apple works best?

A tart apple like Granny Smith adds a nice contrast to the sweetness. Golden Delicious also works well.

Can I make this in the oven instead of a grill?

Absolutely. Just bake at 350°F (175°C) in a covered ovenproof dish for 1 to 1.5 hours.

How do I prevent the bacon from becoming soggy?

For crispier bacon, uncover the dish during the last 15–20 minutes of baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use a gluten-free barbecue sauce. Check labels on all ingredients.

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