The Best Baked Beans EVER

This baked beans casserole is a crowd-favorite side dish made with smoky bacon, kielbasa, sweet pineapple, and rich brown sugar for deep, comforting flavor. Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, potlucks, and holidays, this easy oven-baked recipe delivers thick, caramelized beans with minimal prep time. Made with pantry staples and Bush’s Vegetarian Baked Beans, it’s a reliable, flavorful option for weeknight meals or large gatherings. This hearty baked beans recipe offers the ideal balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes, and pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, and classic barbecue favorites.

Ingredients

• 2 (28-oz) cans Bush’s Vegetarian Baked Beans, well drained (see notes)
• 13.5 oz kielbasa, chopped into bite-sized pieces (Johnsonville recommended)
• 1 (8-oz) can crushed pineapple in natural juices, well drained
• 1 small yellow onion, finely minced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 Tbsp gluten-free steak sauce
• 1 Tbsp mustard
• 1 lb center-cut bacon (avoid thick-cut)
• 3/4 cup ketchup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl (or directly in the prepared baking dish), combine the drained baked beans, chopped kielbasa, drained pineapple, onion, brown sugar, steak sauce, and mustard. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture into the baking dish if it’s not already in it.
4. Lay the bacon slices in a single layer across the top of the bean mixture. They can touch slightly but should not overlap.
5. Spread the ketchup evenly over the bacon using the back of a spoon.
6. Bake for 2 to 2½ hours, or until the bacon on top is deeply caramelized. For extra crispiness, briefly broil at the end if desired.
7. Allow the baked beans to cool for 15–30 minutes before serving to help them thicken and set.

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Tips

• Drain well: Fully draining the beans and pineapple prevents the final dish from becoming watery.
• Use center-cut bacon: It renders less fat while still crisping beautifully.
• Low and slow baking is key for deeply caramelized bacon and concentrated flavor.
• Broil with caution: A quick broil enhances crispiness, but watch closely to avoid burning.
• Resting time helps the beans firm up and stops them from being runny.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein swap: Replace kielbasa with smoked sausage, diced ham, or cooked ground beef.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the bacon and kielbasa; add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth.
• Different beans: Use regular baked beans, maple-flavored, or hickory-smoked varieties.
• Sweetness control: Reduce brown sugar or pineapple if you prefer a less sweet result.
• Spicy twist: Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble up to one day in advance and refrigerate. Bake the next day, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
You can cook the bean mixture in a slow cooker, but the bacon will not caramelize the same way. For best results, crisp the bacon in the oven separately and add it on top before serving.

Do I have to use Bush’s brand?
No, but Bush’s Vegetarian Baked Beans give an ideal flavor and consistency for this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect alongside BBQ chicken, ribs, pulled pork, or grilled burgers.
• Serve with cornbread, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Ideal for potlucks, picnics, game day, or holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A crowd-pleasing classic with sweet, smoky, and savory flavors.
• The caramelized bacon topping makes it unforgettable.
• Simple ingredients, big payoff.
• Easy to prepare ahead of time and perfect for feeding a group.
• Rich, hearty, and bursting with irresistible comfort-food goodness.