Sweet and Smoky Barbecue Beans

Transform your next barbecue into an unforgettable feast with these Sweet and Smoky Barbecue Beans—a hearty, flavor-packed side dish that’s perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Featuring tender navy beans enveloped in a rich sauce of ketchup, molasses, and brown sugar, this recipe brings the ideal balance of sweetness and tang. Smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, and liquid smoke add layers of smoky depth, while a touch of Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar brighten the dish with just the right amount of tanginess. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of simmering, these barbecue beans are a no-fuss addition to your table, whether served alongside classic ribs or spooned over cornbread for a comforting twist. Give your beans a smoky, caramelized finish, and watch them steal the show!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 cups canned navy beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 0.75 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 0.5 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil.

Step 2

Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it begins to soften and turn translucent.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chipotle chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.

Step 5

Add the canned navy beans (drained and rinsed), ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, molasses, and liquid smoke.

Step 6

Pour in the cup of water and stir everything to combine well.

Step 7

Season with salt and black pepper, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beans cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9

After 30 minutes, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to allow the sauce to thicken for an additional 10-15 minutes. Continue stirring occasionally.

Step 10

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar for more tanginess if desired.

Step 11

Remove from heat and let the beans cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a side dish or pair with your favorite barbecue meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1211.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1590.7

Total Fat 35.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.9g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5418.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 267.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 42.8g	0%
Total Sugars 89.3g
Protein 61.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 568.3mg	0%
Iron 16.7mg	0%
Potassium 3451.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.4%

Protein: 15.0%

Carbs: 65.6%