Get ready to transport your kitchen to the heart of the South with this mouthwatering Southern Baked Beans and Sausage recipe that promises to be the star of any meal! Imagine a bubbling, caramelized dish packed with smoky sausage, sweet beans, and a tantalizing sauce that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a family dinner, or just craving some down-home comfort food, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that combines classic Southern flavors in one irresistible dish.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (28 oz) baked beans
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned baked beans, chopped onions, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and mustard. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Slice the smoked sausage into half-inch thick rounds, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Gently fold the sliced sausage into the bean mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the entire mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and the top has developed a slightly caramelized appearance.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to settle and sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot as a hearty side dish or main course, garnishing with optional chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor profile - a good sausage can elevate the entire dish.
- Don't rush the baking process. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the top to caramelize beautifully.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of bourbon or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish rest a bit longer after baking to allow it to set.
- For a smoky twist, use a mix of different sausage types or add some crispy bacon bits on top.
- Always use a baking dish that allows the beans to spread out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, hearty beans.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 40mg