A simmering pot of homemade BBQ beans blows the canned stuff out of the water every time. This recipe for Sweet & Smoky BBQ Beans is the perfect side dish for summer cookouts, cozy winter dinners, or any time you want something that fills your kitchen with smoky, savory-sweet aromas. It strikes the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and just a touch spicy.
What sets these beans apart is the flavor enhancement from our Espresso Brown Sugar. The espresso notes add complexity to the sauce and enhance the various spices in the sauce. You can make this recipe on the stovetop for a quick side or finish it in the oven for a slow-baked, caramelized finish.
These Sweet & Smoky BBQ Beans pair beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian spread. They also reheat well, making them a great
make-ahead dish for parties or meal prep. However you serve them, they’re sure to become a staple on your table.
Ingredients
2 15-oz cans navy beans (or pinto beans), drained and rinsed 1 cup tomato sauce
2–3 slices thick-cut bacon, diced (omit for vegetarian/vegan version)
½ white onion, finely diced 1 clove garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
¼ cup Andrea’s Bakehouse Espresso Brown Sugar (insert hyperlink) 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the aromatics:
In a medium saucepan or oven-safe skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crisp (if using). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain all but 1 tbsp of fat from the pan.
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the sauce:
Stir in tomato sauce, Andrea’s Bakehouse Espresso Brown Sugar, molasses, mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add water/broth and stir to combine.
Simmer:
Add beans and cooked bacon. Stir until evenly coated in sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened and beans are flavorful.
Optional oven finish:
For a deeper, caramelized flavor, transfer the beans to a small baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more vinegar for brightness. Serve warm as a side to BBQ mains, grilled vegetables, or cornbread.