Root Beer Baked Beans are a sweet and savory twist on the classic side dish, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or any casual gathering. The root beer adds a unique depth of flavor with its caramel and vanilla notes, complementing the smoky bacon and rich molasses in the beans. This dish is easy to prepare and brings a comforting, homestyle touch to any meal. Simmered to perfection, these baked beans are not only delicious but also a fun and creative way to elevate a traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cans (15 oz each) navy beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup root beer
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook in the bacon fat until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, navy beans, root beer, ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bake the Beans:
- Pour the bean mixture into a baking dish or Dutch oven.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Allow the beans to cool slightly before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature as a delicious side dish.
Enjoy your Root Beer Baked Beans, a sweet and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and brings a unique twist to any meal!
