Mission BBQ Baked Beans Recipe

Let’s talk BBQ baked beans! I’ve been refining this Mission BBQ recipe for years, and I’ve got it down!

I use a combination of bacon and smoked ham hock for a deep, complex smoky base.

You’ll be using a mix of brown sugar and molasses for that perfect balance of sweetness and depth.

Don’t forget to top the beans with crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor and texture!

How to Make Mission BBQ Baked Beans Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 can Pork & Beans (15 oz.)
• 4 slices Bacon (diced)
• 1 Red Pepper (chopped)
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 cup Brisket (cooked, chopped)
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Mustard
• 1 tbsp Molasses
• 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Heat a large oven-proof pot over medium heat.

Step 2:

Add the diced bacon to the pot.

Cook until it begins to render fat and turn crispy.

Step 3:

Stir in the chopped onion, red pepper, and minced garlic.

Sauté for about 2 minutes or until they soften.

Step 4:

Mix in the brisket, brown sugar, mustard, molasses, BBQ sauce, salt, and black pepper.

Combine thoroughly with the sautéed mixture.

Step 5:

Add the pork & beans to the pot.

Stir well, then transfer to your preheated oven.

Bake for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Balance the Sweet and Smoky Flavors

The combination of brown sugar, molasses, and BBQ sauce helps build a deep, rich taste.

Feel free to adjust the quantities slightly to suit your personal preference.

Keep an Eye on Your Beans

To ensure even cooking and prevent sticking, it’s a great idea to stir the beans occasionally while they bake in the oven.

Substitute for Brisket

If brisket isn’t readily available, feel free to use leftover smoked beef or pork belly for a similar smoky flavor.

Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly if substituting with raw meat.

Enhance with Spice

For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.

This can be mixed in with the other spices before baking.

Texture Matters

Consider partially mashing some of the beans before baking if you prefer a thicker consistency.

This can help give the dish a rustic texture that some people enjoy.

What to Serve with Mission BBQ Baked Beans

Cornbread Perfection

You can’t go wrong with the classic choice of cornbread!

The slight sweetness and crumbly texture make it a wonderful counterpart to the savory and rich baked beans.

For an extra touch, try adding jalapeños or cheddar cheese to your cornbread mix.

Fresh Summer Salads

A crisp summer salad is a refreshing contrast to the warmth of baked beans.

Consider combining greens like arugula or spinach with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

The salad’s acidity and freshness cut through the beans’ richness beautifully.

BBQ Pulled Pork Tostadas

Step out of the ordinary with BBQ pulled pork tostadas.

These tostadas provide a crunchy element and an exciting mix of flavors with shredded pork on top.

Add a dollop of sour cream and some lime juice for a zesty finish alongside your baked beans.

Spicy Coconut Rice

Spicy coconut rice is an unexpected yet amazing partner to baked beans.

The creamy, slightly sweet rice with a hint of spice can enhance the beans’ flavors in an interesting way.

Top it off with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro for extra freshness.

Sweet Chili Lime Pulled Pork Tacos

Try pairing baked beans with sweet chili lime pulled pork tacos for a twist!

These tacos burst with a unique blend of citrus and spice, adding a vibrant taste that pairs well with the earthy beans.

Garnish them with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to add a fresh bite!

Variations and Substitutions

Classic Ingredients With a Twist

You can make Mission BBQ baked beans even more flavorful by experimenting with different types of beans.

Try using kidney beans, black beans, or even chickpeas as a substitution!

It gives a new texture and taste that can surprise your usual meal companions.

Protein Options

If you want a slightly different protein experience, consider adding chunks of smoked sausage instead of brisket.

You could also use ground beef or turkey for a leaner option, without losing the hearty feel.

Both options absorb the flavorful sauce nicely!

Spice Level Adjustments

Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you want a spicy kick.

On the other hand, for a more mild version, you can reduce the amount of black pepper or omit any spicy elements altogether.

These small tweaks can really change the face of the dish!

Sweet and Savory Balances

For those who prefer a slightly sweeter bean dish, a touch of brown sugar or molasses can make a big difference.

Alternatively, you could experiment with honey as a natural sweetener.

Mixing sweetness with savory elements like bacon can create a very balanced dish!

How to Store Leftover Mission BBQ Baked Beans

Storing your leftover beans properly is key to preserving their delicious taste for another day.

Use an airtight container to store the beans and keep them as fresh as possible.

Put the container in the refrigerator if you plan on enjoying them within the next few days.

If you want to keep your baked beans for a longer period of time, the freezer is your best bet!

Pour the cooled beans into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion.

When you’re ready to enjoy your beans again, simply move them from the freezer to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Keeping your leftovers fresh is as easy as that!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Undercooking the Beans

One common mistake when making baked beans is not cooking them long enough.

You want those beans to soak up all the flavors and get tender, so be sure to give them enough time in the oven.

I recommend checking that they are soft before you take them out.

Skipping the Pre-Soak

Many people forget to soak their dried beans before cooking.

This step is crucial, especially if you want your beans to come out fully cooked and not crunchy.

Start the night before, and you’ll find it makes all the difference.

Not Adjusting Seasoning

Another mistake is not tasting and adjusting your seasonings.

Different ingredients can affect the flavor, so don’t be shy to add more spices if needed.

I always say, a little taste test never hurts and can ensure a well-balanced dish.