Baked Beans with a Kick

Sweet and spicy, Baked Beans with a Kick are a must-try for any gathering. These beans pack a flavorful punch, thanks to the unique blend of ingredients, and are topped with crispy Turkey Bacon. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Friends have raved about these being the best baked beans they’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet BBQ sauce and spicy jalapenos creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Works as a side for grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty meal.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit among friends and family, perfect for gatherings or casual meals.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by including or excluding jalapeno seeds based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• 9×13 casserole dish
• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Ideal for frying Turkey Bacon evenly while retaining flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

Sweet and Spicy, these Baked Beans are full of flavor and covered with Turkey Bacon. Friends have called these the best baked beans they have ever had!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound thick cut Turkey Bacon (or pepper Turkey Bacon)
– 1 large sweet onion (diced)
– 1 bell pepper (diced (your favorite color))
– 3 jalapeno peppers with or without seeds (diced – optional)
– 2 cans beef and beans (28oz (I used Van Camps) – keep cans upright so you can pour liquid off)
– ¾ cup sweet BBQ sauce (I used Sweet Baby Ray’s)
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ tsp. liquid smoke
– 1 tsp. black pepper (coarsely ground)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Baked Beans with a Kick

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Adjust oven rack to just below the middle of the oven and preheat to 350 F.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

Dice onion, bell pepper, and jalapenos. If you include the seeds of the jalapenos, beans will have more spice.

Step 3: Cook Turkey Bacon

Cut Turkey Bacon into pieces about ½” – 1” long. Fry over medium-high heat in a cast iron skillet until halfway cooked. Do not discard the fat; use a slotted spoon to remove bacon chunks and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapenos to the Turkey Bacon grease in the frying pan. Fry over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Prepare Beans

Open the cans of beans and drain up to 1” of liquid off each can. Pour remaining beans and liquid into a large mixing bowl.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add BBQ sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, and black pepper to the mixing bowl. Once veggies are done, add them to the mixture.

Step 7: Mix and Transfer

Gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula until well mixed. Pour it into a 9×13 casserole dish or equivalent pan. Scatter cooked Turkey Bacon over the top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 1-2 hours until the sauce reaches syrup thickness (adjust cooking time to your preference). After baking, let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Baked Beans with a Kick

Baked Beans with a Kick are not just a side dish; they can be the star of your meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, serving these beans creatively can elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve the beans in small bowls as an appetizer.
• Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and color.

With Grilled Meats

• Pair with grilled chicken or ribs for a hearty meal.
• The sweet and spicy flavors complement the smoky taste of grilled meats perfectly.

On a Bun

• Use the beans as a filling for sliders or hot dog buns.
• Top with coleslaw for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.

In Tacos

• Spoon the baked beans into soft tortillas.
• Add avocado slices and salsa for a unique twist on tacos.

With Cornbread

• Serve alongside buttery cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• This combination is perfect for southern-style meals.

As a Side Salad

• Mix with chopped greens for a refreshing salad option.
• Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to balance the dish’s richness.

How to Perfect Baked Beans with a Kick

To ensure your Baked Beans with a Kick is top-notch, follow these tips. They will help you enhance flavors and achieve the perfect consistency.

• Choose quality bacon: Start with thick-cut turkey bacon for maximum flavor and texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapenos based on your heat preference.
• Let it rest: Allowing the beans to sit after baking helps thicken the sauce as it cools down.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and peppers will give your dish more vibrant flavors compared to canned alternatives.
• Experiment with sauces: Try different brands of BBQ sauce or add hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Monitor cooking time: Check periodically during baking to achieve your desired sauce thickness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Beans with a Kick

Baked Beans with a Kick pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spicy profile. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the beans.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, this classic side enhances any barbecue spread beautifully.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs well with baked beans.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy favorite brings warmth and richness that contrasts nicely with spicy beans.
6. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those flavorful beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Baked Beans with a Kick to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Spice Level: Many people skip the jalapenos, but they add a delightful heat. If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds or use fewer peppers.
• Not Measuring Ingredients: It’s easy to eyeball ingredients, but measuring ensures balanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking Turkey Bacon too long can make it tough. Aim for it to be just halfway cooked before adding it to the beans.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Letting your baked beans sit for 10 minutes after baking allows flavors to meld. Skipping this step can lead to a less flavorful dish.
• Choosing Low-Quality Canned Beans: The base of your recipe is essential. Opt for high-quality canned beans for better taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Beans with a Kick in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow beans to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Baked Beans with a Kick

• Place cooled beans in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Baked Beans with a Kick

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover the beans with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20–30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer beans to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Beans with a Kick:

Can I make Baked Beans with a Kick ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate. Just reheat before serving for the best flavor.

What can I substitute for Turkey Bacon?

You can use regular bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option. Smoked paprika can add a nice flavor if you skip the bacon.

How spicy are these Baked Beans with a Kick?

The spice level depends on how many jalapenos you include and whether you keep the seeds. Adjust accordingly based on your preference!

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix black beans, pinto beans, or any other variety you enjoy. Just ensure they complement the dish well.

Final Thoughts

Baked Beans with a Kick are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering or meal. This recipe allows room for customization, so feel free to add your favorite spices or change up the veggies. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress!

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Baked Beans with a Kick

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Baked Beans with a Kick are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making them an irresistible addition to any gathering. This dish features tender beans simmered with crispy Turkey Bacon, sweet BBQ sauce, and a hint of jalapeno heat. Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners, these baked beans have earned rave reviews from friends who insist they are the best they’ve ever tasted. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Elevate your next meal with a side that promises to impress!

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound thick-cut Turkey Bacon
• 1 large sweet onion (diced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 3 jalapeno peppers (diced, optional)
• 2 cans (28 oz each) beef and beans
• ¾ cup sweet BBQ sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ tsp liquid smoke
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and jalapenos (if using).
3. Cut the Turkey Bacon into pieces and fry in a cast iron skillet until halfway cooked; drain on paper towels.
4. Sauté the diced vegetables in the bacon grease for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Drain excess liquid from the cans of beans and combine them in a mixing bowl with sautéed vegetables, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, and black pepper.
6. Mix well and transfer to a casserole dish, topping with cooked Turkey Bacon.
7. Bake for 1-2 hours until thickened; let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ½ cup (120g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Adjust jalapeno quantity based on your spice preference. Letting the dish rest helps thicken the sauce as it cools down. Feel free to customize by adding different BBQ sauces or spices.