Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This BBQ baked beans slow cooker recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget canned beans – this homemade version is bursting with smoky BBQ flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beans. It's one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but requires minimal effort. Get ready to experience the best baked beans you've ever had!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped bacon or smoked sausage
Instructions:
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Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your baked beans.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dry mustard, and black pepper. If using bacon or sausage, add it now as well.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Stir everything well to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer they simmer, the more intense the flavor will become.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more BBQ sauce, brown sugar, or salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot as a delicious side dish with grilled meats, pulled pork, or your favorite barbecue fare. This is also a fantastic option for healthy meals!
Cooking Tips for the Best BBQ Baked Beans:
- Bean Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans! Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas would work well.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of smoked paprika to control the spiciness. For a milder flavor, use less; for a bolder taste, add more.
- Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter beans, add a bit more brown sugar. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
- Make it Ahead: These baked beans taste even better the next day! They're perfect for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 10g
- Fiber: 8g
This slow cooker BBQ baked beans recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also quick dinner ideas. It's a comforting, crowd-pleasing side that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the ease of homemade cooking with this easy recipe and impress your guests with your culinary skills! Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family – it's one they'll be asking for again and again!