Root Beer Baked Beans are a delicious twist on traditional baked beans that combines the rich flavors of root beer with the heartiness of tender beans. This sweet and savory dish is ideal for summer barbecues, potlucks, and any meal that requires a touch of comfort and nostalgia. Root Beer Baked Beans, with their distinct flavor profile and simple preparation, are sure to become a family favorite, providing a delightful blend of sweetness, smokiness, and tanginess in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cans (15 oz each) of navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup root beer
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: cooked and crumbled bacon, sliced green onions
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the root beer, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In the greased baking dish, add the drained and rinsed navy beans, sautéed onion and bell pepper, and the prepared sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Bake the Beans:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beans are tender.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the Root Beer Baked Beans from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with cooked and crumbled bacon and sliced green onions before serving.
Tips:
- For a smokier flavor, you can add a few dashes of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes before adding it to the beans.
- These baked beans can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Root Beer Baked Beans have a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. These baked beans, whether served as a side dish at your next barbecue or as a comforting meal on a cold night, are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. So grab a fork and dig into a bowl of Root Beer Baked Beans for a delicious and satisfying meal!