Root Beer Baked Beans

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Root Beer Baked Beans

Sweet, smoky, and bubbling with flavor — a crowd‑pleasing side dish with a playful twist.

Introduction

Baked beans are a staple at barbecues and family gatherings, but this version takes them to the next level. By adding root beer, you get a subtle caramel sweetness that pairs beautifully with smoky bacon and tangy barbecue sauce. These Root Beer Baked Beans are hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to be the star of your table.

Ingredients

2 cans (28 oz each) pork and beans

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

½ cup root beer

½ cup barbecue sauce

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup ketchup

1 tbsp yellow mustard

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

½ tsp liquid smoke

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp garlic powder

8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  1. Mix Beans

In a large bowl, combine pork and beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans.

  1. Add Flavorings

Stir in root beer, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, liquid smoke, onion powder, and garlic powder.

  1. Assemble

Pour mixture into a 9×13‑inch baking dish. Spread evenly.

  1. Top with Bacon

Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the beans.

  1. Bake

Bake uncovered for 1 hour, until bubbling and thickened.

  1. Rest & Serve

Let sit a few minutes before serving warm.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Bake Time: 1 hour

Total Time: ~1 hr 15 mins

Servings: 8–10

Tips for Success

Use a bold barbecue sauce for extra depth.

For thicker beans, bake an additional 15 minutes.

Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Make ahead: prepare mixture, refrigerate, and bake before serving.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Smokier Flavor: Increase liquid smoke or use smoked paprika.

Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon and use vegetarian beans.

Sweet Twist: Swap root beer for Dr Pepper or cola.

Serving Ideas

Pair with grilled burgers, ribs, or chicken.

Serve alongside cornbread or potato salad.

Use leftovers as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

Storytelling Element

Imagine pulling this dish from the oven — beans bubbling, bacon crisp on top, and the aroma of smoky sweetness filling the kitchen. Each spoonful is rich, tangy, and comforting, making it the perfect side for gatherings big or small.

Conclusion

These Root Beer Baked Beans are a playful twist on a classic, combining sweet, smoky, and savory flavors into one irresistible dish. Easy to make and always a hit, they’ll quickly become a go‑to recipe for your table.

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