Description
Root beer adds unexpected depth to classic baked beans, creating a sweet and tangy side dish that surprises dinner guests. Hearty beans simmer with smoky bacon, molasses, and root beer, delivering a mouthwatering accompaniment you’ll crave at summer barbecues.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (28 ounces / 794 grams) baked beans
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) root beer
Sweeteners and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Finishing Ingredients:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C), preparing a suitable baking dish for the bean mixture.
- Combine all ingredients in the baking dish, thoroughly stirring to ensure even distribution of flavors, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory elements.
- Stir the mixture gently to prevent splashing and ensure all components are well integrated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent excessive surface browning.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes, periodically checking the consistency and moisture level.
- Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow the top to caramelize and the sauce to thicken, developing a rich, glossy appearance.
- Verify the beans are heated through and the sauce has reached a desired sticky, bubbling consistency.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to settle and sauce to slightly cool.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped herbs or crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor complexity.
Notes
- Swap root beer with cola or Dr. Pepper for a different flavor twist that still adds sweetness and depth to the beans.
- Enhance protein content by mixing in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or crumbled sausage for extra richness and texture.
- Reduce sugar by using sugar-free root beer and replacing brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or stevia for a diabetic-friendly version.
- Create a vegetarian option by using plant-based Worcestershire sauce and adding smoked paprika to maintain a rich, complex flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 207 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 556 mg
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg