Southern-style baked beans are a staple at any barbecue or potluck gathering. The rich and hearty flavors of these beans make them a crowd favorite. While there are many variations of this classic recipe, we have a tried and true version that is sure to be a hit at your next event. In this article, we will take you through the steps of creating the perfect southern-style baked beans, from soaking the beans to adding the final touches for maximum flavor. So, grab your apron and let's get cooking!
No Southern barbecue is complete without a side of delicious baked beans. These beans are slow-cooked with a variety of savory ingredients, resulting in a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. Try using a dark beer for an extra depth of flavor.
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The Very Best Barbecue Baked Beans
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Vidalia Onion, Garlic, Bourbon, Brewed Coffee
This recipe is a classic in the South and for good reason. The combination of brown sugar, ketchup, and molasses creates a rich and tangy sauce that coats the beans perfectly. For a little extra kick, add some diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
For a more traditional take on baked beans, this recipe uses a mix of navy and pinto beans for a hearty and satisfying dish. The addition of bacon and onions adds a savory element that balances out the sweetness of the sauce. Make sure to cook this dish low and slow for the best results.
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Smoky Southern Baked Beans
Main Ingredients: Ghee, Ground Beef, Medium Onion, Green Bell Pepper
This recipe takes traditional Southern baked beans and gives them a twist with the addition of smoked sausage. The smokiness from the sausage adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy sauce. Serve these beans alongside your beer can chicken for a truly delicious meal.
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Southern Lima Beans (Butter Beans)
Main Ingredients: Lima Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Water, Salt, Black Pepper
Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are a staple in Southern cuisine. This recipe slow-cooks the beans with ham hock and collard greens for a dish that is full of flavor and packed with nutrients. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham hock.
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Southern Butter Beans
Main Ingredients: Butter Beans, Butter, Chicken Bouillon, Salt, Water
Similar to lima beans, butter beans are a classic Southern side dish. This recipe adds a little bit of heavy cream for a richer and creamier texture. For a healthier option, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
Black-eyed peas are a Southern tradition, especially when served on New Year's Day for good luck. This recipe cooks them with ham and bacon for a hearty and flavorful side dish. For a twist, try adding some diced bell peppers for some extra color and crunch.
Another take on the classic black-eyed pea dish, this recipe uses smoked turkey instead of ham for a leaner option. The addition of jalapenos and hot sauce gives these beans a spicy kick that is sure to please. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Mac and cheese is a comfort food favorite, and this Southern-style recipe takes it to the next level. The combination of sharp cheddar and colby jack cheese gives this dish a rich and creamy texture, while bread crumbs on top add a satisfying crunch. For a twist, try adding some diced ham or bacon to the mix.
This recipe takes a classic Southern dish and adds a little bit of heat with the addition of hot sauce. The combination of cheddar, monterey jack, and pepper jack cheese gives this mac and cheese a deliciously spicy kick. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the hot sauce.
Candied yams are a staple in Southern cooking, especially during the holiday season. This recipe uses a combination of brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon to create a sweet and sticky glaze that coats the yams perfectly. For a twist, try adding some mini marshmallows on top and broil until golden brown.
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Southern Baked Beans Quintet
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Chopped Onion, Garlic, Butter Beans, Red Kidney
This recipe takes five different types of beans and combines them into one delicious dish. The addition of bourbon and bacon adds a rich and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. Make sure to use a variety of beans for a dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing.
Green beans are a classic Southern side dish, and this recipe adds a little bit of bacon and onion for a savory twist. The green beans are simmered in a flavorful broth until tender, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Add a dash of soy sauce for a little bit of umami flavor.
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Southern Inspired Greens, Beans & Ham Soup
Main Ingredients: Cubed Ham, Beans, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens
This hearty soup is a Southern-inspired version of the classic Italian dish, pasta fagioli. The addition of smoked ham and collard greens gives this soup a unique and flavorful twist. Don't forget to serve it with some crusty french bread for dipping.
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Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
Cornbread is a staple in Southern cooking, and this recipe uses a cast iron skillet to create a deliciously crispy crust. The addition of corn kernels and honey adds a touch of sweetness to this savory side dish. For an extra kick, add some diced jalapenos to the batter.
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Crockpot Ham and Beans - A Southern comfort food staple
Main Ingredients: Ham Bone, Pinto Beans, Onion, Beans, Water, Salt, Pepper
This easy and flavorful dish is a staple in Southern comfort food. The combination of ham, beans, and vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying meal that can be made in the crockpot for a hands-off cooking experience. Top it off with some sour cream and green onions for a touch of freshness.
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Southern Northern Beans and Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Bean, Olive Oil, Onion, Green Bell Pepper, Garlic
For a leaner twist on traditional baked beans, this recipe uses smoked turkey instead of ham. The result is a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for any barbecue or potluck. For some added smokiness, try using a smoked paprika in the sauce.
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, and this Southern-style recipe takes it up a notch with the addition of bacon and green onions. The combination of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that is sure to please. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon.
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Southern Style Baby Lima Beans
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Chicken Broth, Garlic, Onion Powder, Sugar
Baby lima beans are a favorite in Southern cooking, and this recipe slow-cooks them with bacon and white wine for a deliciously savory dish. The result is a creamy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of white wine.
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Baked Southern Chicken Salad with Bloody Mary Dressing
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Spice, Black Eyed Beans, Sweetcorn
This unique twist on traditional chicken salad uses a tangy and spicy bloody mary dressing to give it a Southern kick. The chicken is baked with bacon and cheddar cheese for a hearty and flavorful salad that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing.
Soak the Beans
Before diving into the recipe, it's important to note that using dried beans is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your baked beans. Soaking the beans overnight is crucial to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. Additionally, soaking helps remove any impurities and makes the beans easier to digest. So, be sure to plan ahead and give your beans a good soak before starting the cooking process.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
The key to creating a delicious batch of southern-style baked beans is in the flavors. Our recipe calls for a combination of bacon, molasses, and barbecue sauce to give the beans a rich and smoky taste. The bacon adds a savory depth, while the molasses brings a touch of sweetness and a dark, rich color. We recommend using your favorite barbecue sauce to add a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the dish. Onion, garlic, and mustard are also essential ingredients that add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
The Secret Ingredient
While many recipes call for brown sugar as a sweetener, we have a secret ingredient that takes our southern-style baked beans to the next level – maple syrup. The addition of maple syrup adds a unique depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness without being overpowering. Trust us, this small addition will make a big difference in the final taste of your beans.
Bake to Perfection
After all the ingredients have been combined, it's time to bake the beans to perfection. The slow and low cooking method is essential for allowing all the flavors to blend together and develop. Our recipe calls for baking the beans for 3-4 hours at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This longer cooking time allows the beans to become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors in the dish.
In conclusion, southern-style baked beans are a must-have side dish for any summer gathering. By following our recipe and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds. So, next time you're in charge of the side dish, remember to soak your beans, use a flavorful blend of ingredients, and bake them to perfection for the ultimate southern-style baked beans experience.
