Discover the unique and delicious flavor of Root Beer Baked Beans. Perfect for barbecues and family gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress!

Introduction

Root Beer Baked Beans are a delightful twist on a classic side dish, combining the rich, sweet flavor of root beer with the hearty goodness of baked beans. This unique recipe adds a depth of flavor that’s both surprising and incredibly satisfying. Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or any family gathering, Root Beer Baked Beans are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

The addition of root beer to baked beans may seem unconventional, but it creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, enhancing the beans’ natural flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a fantastic accompaniment to burgers, ribs, or hot dogs. The preparation is straightforward, using common pantry ingredients, and the result is a deliciously comforting side dish that stands out from the usual baked beans. Ready to add a little flair to your next meal? Let’s dive into the recipe for these mouth-watering Root Beer Baked Beans.

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup root beer (not diet)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bacon, sautéed onion, navy beans, root beer, ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring halfway through the baking time.
7. Remove from the oven and let the beans sit for a few minutes before serving.

How to Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop the bacon into small pieces and cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the flavorful bacon fat in the skillet. Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it in the bacon fat until it becomes translucent and fragrant.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy bacon, sautéed onions, navy beans, root beer, ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

Transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. Stir the beans halfway through the cooking time to prevent them from sticking to the dish and to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let the beans sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for a family gathering or a small barbecue.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, you can substitute navy beans with pinto beans or Great Northern beans if you prefer.

2. Can I use diet root beer?

It’s best to use regular root beer for this recipe. Diet root beer lacks the sugar needed to balance the flavors properly.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and sauté the onions in a tablespoon of olive oil instead.

5. Can I prepare these beans in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the beans a day in advance. Follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Conclusion

Root Beer Baked Beans offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing together the sweetness of root beer with the savory elements of traditional baked beans. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that adds a unique flavor profile to any meal. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or any gathering, these beans are sure to become a favorite. Try this recipe the next time you want to impress your guests with a delicious and memorable side dish!