Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans

Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans

4 servings
These baked beans are ready in just 30 minutes, which makes them perfect for an impromptu summer shindig. Pineapple is the surprise ingredient that adds sweetness and flavor.

Ingredients

  • slices bacon
    5
  • yellow onion

    chopped, about 2 cups

    1
  • kosher salt
    1 tsp
  • 50 teaspoon crushed red pepper

    optional

  • 25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 15.5-oz. cans pinto beans

    rinsed and drained

    3
  • barbecue sauce
    1 ½ c
  • 1/2-in. chunks fresh pineapple

    about 10 oz.

    1 ½ c
  • whole-grain mustard
    1 ½ tbsp
  • light brown sugar
    1 ½ tbsp
  • apple cider vinegar
    1 tbsp
  • 25 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves

    finely chopped

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the bacon: Preheat oven to 350°F. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium. Add bacon; cook until crisp, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a towel-lined plate. Let cool, then coarsely chop.

  2. 2

    Stir ingredients together in a skillet: Drain bacon drippings, reserving 2 tablespoons in skillet. Add onion to skillet; cook over medium, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add salt, crushed red pepper (if using), and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Stir in chopped bacon, beans, barbecue sauce, pineapple, mustard, and sugar.

  3. 3

    Bake: Cover skillet with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake until thickened and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Stir in vinegar. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Sprinkle with cilantro.

Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans

Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans

60 min4 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving a classic side dish with an unexpected twist? These Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans are ready in just 30 minutes, making them the ultimate effortless addition to your next backyard barbecue or weeknight meal.

What truly sets these baked beans apart is the vibrant addition of fresh pineapple. This secret ingredient infuses every bite with a bright, sweet, and tangy flavor that perfectly balances the savory richness of bacon and a robust barbecue sauce. It's a game-changer that elevates humble canned pinto beans into something truly special.

Get ready for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. You'll savor the smoky depth from the bacon, a gentle warmth from black and optional red pepper, and the irresistible sweet and tart notes from the pineapple. The beans themselves will be tender, enveloped in a thick, glossy sauce that clings beautifully. This dish delivers a comforting, homestyle feel, but with a gourmet touch that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Customization & Variations

These versatile baked beans are easy to adapt. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and sauté the onion in a touch of olive oil. You can swap pinto beans for cannellini or great northern beans if that's what you have on hand. While fresh pineapple is best, well-drained canned pineapple chunks can be used in a pinch. If you're out of whole-grain mustard, dijon will offer a similar tang.

Serve these Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans alongside grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or slow-smoked ribs for the perfect summer spread. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving adds a lovely pop of color and herbaceous freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions