Best Root Beer Brands Recipe

Root Beer Baked Beans are the ultimate twist on a classic side dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or family dinners. The addition of root beer adds a deep, sweet complexity that elevates traditional baked beans into something unforgettable. The sugars in the root beer caramelize during baking, complementing the savory bacon and smoky barbecue flavors in every bite. It’s a surprisingly simple upgrade to a comfort food staple, with just enough flair to impress your guests without demanding extra time in the kitchen.

There’s a reason baked beans are a must at any backyard barbecue—they’re hearty, flavorful, and make the perfect partner to grilled meats and other summer favorites. This version stands out because it delivers a balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory that’s both nostalgic and unique. The root beer infuses the beans with a subtle vanilla-spice finish while enhancing the depth of flavor in the barbecue sauce. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. It can be made in the oven, on the stovetop, or even in a slow cooker depending on your schedule and preference. It pairs well with burgers, ribs, hot dogs, or even as a standalone dish for meatless meals. Best of all, it uses pantry staples, so you can whip it up with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just feeding the family, these beans will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

Summary

Root Beer Baked Beans combine sweet, smoky, and savory flavors into a deliciously unique twist on a classic barbecue side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich in flavor, crowd-pleasing, easy to prepare, and perfect for cookouts or comfort meals year-round.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large oven-safe skillet or baking dish

Mixing bowl

Measuring cups and spoons

Wooden spoon or spatula

Can opener

Knife and cutting board

Tips for Success

Use a bold-flavored root beer for best depth

Cook bacon until crispy for extra texture

Let beans rest after baking to thicken the sauce

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving

Ingredients

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 small onion, diced

3 cans (15 oz each) pork and beans, undrained

¾ cup root beer (not diet)

½ cup barbecue sauce

¼ cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.

Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine pork and beans, root beer, barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, cooked bacon, and sautéed onions. Stir to combine well.

Pour mixture back into the skillet or into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly thickened.

Let cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.