Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans

Get ready to elevate your next cookout with a dish that’s sure to steal the spotlight – Root Beer Baked Beans. This recipe brings together the classic flavors of sweet and smoky baked beans with a unique twist that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The marriage of root beer, barbecue sauce, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to summertime bliss with every bite.

From the moment the aroma of these Root Beer Baked Beans starts wafting through your kitchen, you know something special is about to happen. The sweetness of the root beer, the richness of the barbecue sauce, and the savory crunch of bacon all come together to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re serving these beans at a bustling potluck or a laid-back backyard barbecue, they are guaranteed to be a hit with friends and family alike.

With the versatility to pair perfectly with grilled meats or stand alone as a hearty side dish, Root Beer Baked Beans are a must-have addition to your recipe collection. The ease of preparation and the depth of flavor make this dish a go-to favorite for gatherings of all kinds. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to wow your guests with a side dish that brings a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of deliciousness to the table.

Quick Benefits

• Adds a unique twist with the deep flavor of root beer
• Versatile – can be made with different types of beans for dietary preferences
• Stores well and flavors deepen over time
• Complements a variety of grilled meats and can be served as a hearty side dish

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans Recipe

• This unique recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of root beer with smoky bacon and barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering twist on classic baked beans.
• Perfect for grilling season, potlucks, or cookouts, these Root Beer Baked Beans are a guaranteed hit that will disappear quickly at any gathering.
• The zing of hot sauce adds a delightful kick to the sweet and smoky flavors, making these beans more than just your average side dish.
• With the option to customize by using different beans or adding toppings like jalapeños or chives, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and preferences.
• The convenience of being able to prepare these beans in advance and store them in the fridge for up to four days makes them a great make-ahead dish for busy days or entertaining.
• These baked beans pair beautifully with a variety of grilled meats and other dishes, adding a burst of flavor and fun to any meal.
• Whether you’re looking to evoke feelings of nostalgia or simply want to enjoy a delicious and family-friendly side dish, these Root Beer Baked Beans are sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients for Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3/4 cup regular root beer
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce, to taste
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pork and beans
• 1/2 cup smoky barbecue sauce
• 6 slices bacon

Pro Tips for Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans

For a successful batch of Root Beer Baked Beans, consider a couple of pro tips. Firstly, when cooking the bacon, opt for thick-cut bacon if available to prevent it from cooking too quickly and ensure a nice, crispy texture. If thick-cut bacon is not an option, just keep a closer eye on the regular bacon to avoid overcooking. Additionally, for a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika and a splash of olive oil to maintain that smoky flavor in the dish without the meat component.

To enhance the flavors and allow them to develop further, consider making these baked beans ahead of time. Store the leftovers in airtight glass containers in the fridge for up to four days. The beans actually taste even better the following day as the flavors meld together. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce and gently warm them on the stove. This make-ahead option not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen, making for an even more delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans

Step 1: Oven Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).

Step 2: Bacon Crisping

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.

Step 3: Sautéing Onion

Turn up the heat on the skillet to high and sauté diced onion for about 5 minutes until golden and tender.

Step 4: Assembly

Grease a 1-quart baking dish, then mix together cooked onions, crumbled bacon, pork and beans, root beer, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce until well combined.

Step 5: Baking

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 55 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and thickened around the edges.

Step 6: Resting

Take the beans out of the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made a delicious batch of Root Beer Baked Beans, you can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. To keep them fresh, make sure to cover the dish well with a lid or plastic wrap. The flavors of these baked beans continue to develop and deepen over time, making them even more tasty the next day. When you have leftovers, transfer them into airtight glass containers and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.

These Root Beer Baked Beans are versatile and can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient dish for gatherings. If you plan to make them ahead of time, simply prepare and bake the beans, then reheat them before serving. The flavors of the dish actually improve after it has had time to rest. These flavorful beans are a wonderful accompaniment to grilled meats like burgers, brats, and ribs. Additionally, they pair well with hot dogs, barbecued chicken, or can be enjoyed as a hearty side dish at any potluck or cookout. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a milder flavor or a bit of extra heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If thick cut bacon is unavailable, regular bacon can be used as a substitute, but keep an eye on its cooking time as it may cook faster. For a vegetarian option, swap the bacon with smoked paprika and a splash of olive oil to mimic the smoky flavor. Instead of pork and beans, navy beans or pinto beans in a lightly seasoned tomato sauce can be used as an alternative for a different bean variety.

While root beer is recommended for its sweetness and caramelized flavor, apple cider can be a suitable substitution in autumn for a cozy spiced sweetness. To add a fresh twist, diced jalapeños can be included in the summer for heat and freshness. In spring, try topping the baked beans with fresh chives or crispy fried onions for a pop of brightness and texture. These variations can add a unique touch to the dish while still maintaining its nostalgic and flavorful appeal.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and nostalgic twist, serve these Root Beer Baked Beans in mini mason jars at your next backyard barbecue. Top each jar with a crispy bacon slice for a delightful presentation that will have your guests reaching for seconds.

For a cozy fall gathering, try pairing these Root Beer Baked Beans with slow-cooked pulled pork sliders. Top each slider with a generous spoonful of the beans for a sweet and savory combo that will have your guests raving about the flavors of the season.

FAQs for Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans

Can I substitute pork and beans with a different type of beans?

Yes, you can substitute pork and beans with navy beans or great northern beans if preferred.

Can I use diet or sugar-free root beer for this recipe?

It’s best to use regular root beer for optimal sweetness and caramelized flavor during baking.

Can I prepare these Root Beer Baked Beans in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare and bake in advance, then reheat before serving. Flavors improve after resting.

What are the best ways to serve these baked beans?

They complement grilled meats, hot dogs, barbecued chicken, or can be served as a hearty side at gatherings.

Conclusion

Root Beer Baked Beans are a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress with their sweet and smoky flavors. The combination of root beer, bacon, and barbecue sauce creates a dish that is both nostalgic and delicious, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. These beans have a way of bringing everyone together, sparking conversations and leaving empty plates in their wake.

So next time you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the show, remember the magic of Root Beer Baked Beans. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a dish that will become a cherished tradition in your home. Give these beans a try and watch as your friends and family come back for seconds, savoring every bite of this irresistible dish.

Delicious Root Beer Infused Baked Beans

Root Beer Baked Beans: A sweet, smoky twist on a classic side dish, these beans with bacon and root beer will disappear fast at any cookout.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time55 min

Total Time70 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (Serves approximately 6 portions)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3/4 cup regular root beer
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce, to taste
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pork and beans
• 1/2 cup smoky barbecue sauce
• 6 slices bacon

Instructions

1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
2. Bacon Crisping: Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Sautéing Onion: Turn up the heat on the skillet to high and sauté diced onion for about 5 minutes until golden and tender.
4. Assembly: Grease a 1-quart baking dish, then mix together cooked onions, crumbled bacon, pork and beans, root beer, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce until well combined.
5. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 55 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and thickened around the edges.
6. Resting: Take the beans out of the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving.