If you're gearing up for a backyard bash or just craving something tasty, you gotta try these five barbecue beans recipes. They're packed with flavors that'll make your taste buds dance. From the classic sweet and smoky baked beans to spicy chipotle varieties, there's a perfect dish for everyone. And trust me, you won't want to miss out on the maple bacon twist! Curious about what else is in store? Let's dig in!
Classic BBQ Baked Beans
Classic BBQ Baked Beans are a staple at any outdoor barbecue, combining sweet and smoky flavors that perfectly complement grilled meats. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a comforting dish that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or simply craving a taste of summer, these baked beans will surely be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the navy beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, chopped onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and crumbled bacon if using.
Stir until everything is well mixed. Pour the mixture into a 2-quart baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and slightly thickened.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider using a variety of barbecue sauces to match your taste preferences—smoky, spicy, or sweet.
You can also personalize your baked beans by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a kick, or even honey or maple syrup for additional sweetness.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based barbecue sauce.
Adjust the baking time depending on how thick you like your beans; the longer they cook, the thicker they'll become. Enjoy your delicious BBQ baked beans!
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Beans

Spicy Chipotle BBQ Beans are a flavorful and smoky dish that perfectly complements any barbecue spread or can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian option.
This recipe combines the richness of beans with the heat of chipotle peppers, creating a dish that's both spicy and savory. Ideal for summer cookouts or cozy winter dinners, these beans can be prepared in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, making them versatile and easy to whip up.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, add the black beans, pinto beans, barbecue sauce, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix well and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let the beans cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the flavors meld together.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, feel free to add more chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the beans simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
You can also customize the recipe by adding other ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or even bacon for a non-vegetarian version.
Serve with fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness!
Maple Bacon BBQ Beans
Maple Bacon BBQ Beans are a deliciously sweet and savory dish that combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and crispy bacon with hearty beans. This recipe is perfect for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting side dish during the colder months. The combination of smoky bacon and maple syrup creates a unique flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of bacon, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup of maple syrup
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it's crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, mustard powder, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional minute.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, navy beans, maple syrup, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper.
Transfer this mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and the flavors have melded together.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider using homemade BBQ sauce or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
You can also experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto or black beans, to customize the dish to your taste.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the dish from the oven halfway through and stir it to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Finally, feel free to garnish with chopped parsley or additional crispy bacon before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Black Beans

Sweet and Smoky BBQ Black Beans are a delicious and hearty dish that perfectly complements any barbecue meal or can be served as a standalone vegetarian option. The rich flavors of black beans are improved by a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, making them an irresistible side that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made in under an hour, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until they're softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the rinsed black beans and BBQ sauce to the skillet, stirring well to combine.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider using homemade BBQ sauce or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
If you prefer a spicier kick, you can incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture while cooking.
These Sweet and Smoky BBQ Black Beans also make excellent leftovers; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them as a filling for burritos, a topping for baked potatoes, or even as a dip for tortilla chips!
Vegetarian BBQ White Beans
Vegetarian BBQ White Beans are a delicious and satisfying dish that packs a punch of flavor while being entirely plant-based. This recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner, combining the earthy goodness of white beans with a tangy, sweet BBQ sauce. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for versatility, as you can adjust the level of sweetness and smokiness to suit your taste.
Serve these beans as a side dish or as a main course over rice or in a wrap for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your preferred style)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the drained white beans to the skillet along with the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Stir well to combine, ensuring the beans are coated with the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the flavors meld together.
Adjust seasoning with salt if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a dash of liquid smoke to improve the BBQ essence.
You can also mix in some chopped bell peppers or corn for extra texture and sweetness.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
This dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.
Enjoy your Vegetarian BBQ White Beans with your favorite sides or as a filling for wraps or tacos!