If you’re looking for a unique, crowd-pleasing side dish for your next barbecue, potluck, or family dinner, Root Beer Baked Beans are a must-try! This recipe transforms classic baked beans into something special by adding root beer for sweetness, depth, and a nostalgic flavor twist that pairs perfectly with smoky bacon, savory onions, and tangy barbecue sauce.

These beans are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to become a staple at all your summer gatherings—especially alongside grilled meats, burgers, and ribs.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love These Root Beer Baked Beans

• Sweet + smoky flavor combo that’s irresistible
• Simple ingredients you likely already have
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Budget-friendly and filling
• Great make-ahead dish—flavors deepen as they sit

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🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cans (15 oz each) pork & beans or baked beans
• 6–8 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup root beer (not diet)
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

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🔥 How to Make Root Beer Baked Beans

1. Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet or pot, cook chopped bacon until crispy.
2. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving some drippings in the pan.

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2. Sauté the Onion

1. Add diced onion to the bacon drippings.
2. Cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.

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3. Combine Everything

In a large baking dish or pot, combine:

• Beans
• Cooked bacon
• Sautéed onions
• Root beer
• BBQ sauce
• Brown sugar
• Mustard
• Worcestershire
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika

Stir until fully mixed.

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4. Bake Low & Slow

Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, stirring halfway through.

The sauce should thicken, and the beans will take on a rich, caramelized flavor.

Shortcut Option:
Simmer on the stovetop for 25–30 minutes instead.

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🍽 How to Serve Root Beer Baked Beans

These beans pair beautifully with:

• Grilled burgers
• BBQ ribs
• Hot dogs & sausages
• Pulled pork
• Rotisserie chicken
• Fried chicken
• Smoked brisket

They also make a great side for holiday gatherings, camping meals, and game-day spreads.

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🌟 Tips for the Best Flavor

✔ Use regular (not diet) root beer

Diet soda won’t caramelize properly.

✔ Add heat if you like spice

Try cayenne, jalapeños, or hot BBQ sauce.

✔ Want a smokier flavor?

Use smoked bacon or add liquid smoke.

✔ Want it thicker?

Bake for an extra 15–20 minutes.

✔ Meat lovers’ version

Add cooked ground beef or sliced smoked sausage.

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🧊 Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator:

Store in an airtight container up to 4–5 days.

Freezer:

Freeze up to 2 months.

Reheat:

Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of root beer or water if needed.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

Root Beer Baked Beans are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory. They’re easy to prepare, full of rich flavor, and ideal for feeding a crowd. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them for every cookout and family gathering!

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