Root Beer Baked Beans Recipe
A Sweet, Smoky, and Tangy Side Dish
If you’re looking for a baked beans recipe that goes beyond the ordinary, these Root Beer Baked Beans will surprise you with their bold flavor. By combining the smokiness of bacon, the sweetness of root beer, and the tang of barbecue sauce, you get a dish that’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for barbecues, picnics, or even weeknight dinners. The addition of root beer not only gives a unique caramel-like depth but also enhances the overall richness of the beans.
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, burgers, ribs, or fried chicken, but it’s also delicious enough to enjoy on its own with some warm cornbread on the side.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 slices of bacon (chopped) – adds a smoky, savory flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced – for sweetness and depth.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pork and beans – the base of the dish.
- ¾ cup root beer – the star ingredient, adding sweetness and caramel notes.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce – use your favorite for tangy and smoky flavors.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup – adds richness and extra tomato flavor.
- 1 tablespoon mustard – balances the sweetness with tang.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – enhances the sweetness and deepens the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – for seasoning.
- Optional: A pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon and Onion
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon.
- Cook until the bacon is crispy and has released its fat.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon grease until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bean Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork and beans, root beer, barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, and brown sugar.
- Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add in the cooked bacon and onion mixture.
3. Season and Adjust
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional spices like smoked paprika or chili powder if you want extra smokiness or heat.
4. Bake the Beans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a large oven-safe skillet.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 20–25 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and bubbles around the edges.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the baked beans to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra crispy bacon bits or chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot alongside your favorite barbecue dishes.
Tips for the Best Root Beer Baked Beans:
- Choose a good root beer – A brand with strong flavor (not diet) works best.
- Adjust sweetness – If you like beans less sweet, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
- Add meat – For a heartier dish, stir in shredded pulled pork, smoked sausage, or ground beef.
- Slow cooker option – Combine everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Make ahead – This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are incredibly versatile. Try serving them with:
- Barbecue ribs or pulled pork sandwiches.
- Fried chicken or grilled burgers.
- Cornbread, coleslaw, or potato salad for a picnic-style meal.
- As a warm side dish for holiday dinners.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving):
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 18g
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
With this recipe, you’ll transform simple canned beans into a flavor-packed side dish that your family and friends will love. The root beer gives a caramel-like sweetness that makes it stand out from traditional baked beans.