Patti LaBelle’s baked beans is the perfect way to bring bold but familiar flavors to your table.
This dish combines sweet and savory elements with a touch of Southern flair.
We’ll start with canned baked beans, then amp things up with sweet onion and brown sugar.
Don’t forget to add a pinch of chili powder for a hint of heat—it’s my favorite part of this dish!
How to Make Patti LaBelle Baked Beans
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Ground Beef
- 1 can Baked Beans (32 oz.)
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 1 Green Pepper (chopped)
- 3 tbsp. Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp. Chili Powder
- 1 cup Barbecue Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and get a large baking dish ready.
Step 2:
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 3:
Add the chopped onion and green pepper to the beef. Cook until they are tender.
Step 4:
In your baking dish, mix together baked beans, brown sugar, chili powder, barbecue sauce, and the beef mixture.
Step 5:
Bake in the oven for 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Quality Ingredients
Good quality barbecue sauce adds a wonderful richness to the final dish, so choose your favorite brand for the best flavor.
Adjust the Spice
Feel free to adjust the chili powder to suit your personal taste. Some like it mild, while others prefer a bit more heat!
More Sweetness
If you enjoy a sweeter bean dish, you can add a bit more brown sugar, or even some honey for an extra touch.
Texture Matters
Ensure the ground beef is well-cooked and crumbly before mixing it with the beans, for a consistent texture throughout.
Storing Leftovers
Baked beans taste even better the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated for a quick lunch!
What to Serve with Patti LaBelle Baked Beans
BBQ Pulled Pork
Pairing baked beans with some juicy BBQ pulled pork is a classic choice that never disappoints.
The savory richness of the pork complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the beans perfectly.
You can serve the pulled pork on a bun or on its own alongside the beans.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables add a fresh and healthy dimension to your meal.
Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus work wonderfully when grilled and served alongside the baked beans.
The slight char from the grill enhances the overall taste experience.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a natural partner for baked beans, both in flavor and texture.
The slightly sweet and crumbly nature of cornbread pairs beautifully with the rich sauce of the beans.
You can bake it as muffins or in a skillet for an authentic touch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Try serving roasted Brussels sprouts if you’re in the mood for something a little different.
The earthy taste of the sprouts roasted to a crispy finish creates a perfect balance with the sweet beans.
Toss them in a bit of olive oil and seasoning before roasting.
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries
The sweetness of the potatoes, combined with a hint of spice, makes a great match with the beans.
Bake or fry them to your liking and serve hot for the best contrast possible.
Variations and Substitutions
Spice It Up
If you love a bit of heat, try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to your baked beans.
This will introduce a new layer of flavor and excitement to your dish!
Don’t forget to adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.
Meat Options
For a smokier taste, consider substituting your usual meat with smoked sausage.
You can also try bacon for a savory twist.
These options add a rich depth that complements the beans beautifully.
Sweetness and Tang
If you like a touch of sweetness, swap brown sugar with maple syrup or honey.
These alternatives provide a natural sweetness with a hint of earthy undertones.
For a tangy kick, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or your favorite barbecue sauce.
Vegetarian Options
For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the meat and add more veggies.
Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and corn can enhance the flavor and texture.
Experiment with tofu or tempeh for a protein boost and hearty feel.
How to Store Leftover Patti LaBelle Baked Beans
Storing those delicious leftover Patti LaBelle baked beans properly makes a big difference in maintaining flavor and texture.
Refrigerate Promptly
After enjoying your meal, you should refrigerate the beans within two hours to keep them fresh.
Transfer them to an airtight container to maintain their taste and prevent odors from affecting their flavor.
Freezing for Later
If you’re not planning to eat them soon, consider freezing your leftovers.
Use a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to label it with the date.
This way, you can savor the flavors for up to three months!
Shelf Life and Safety
In the fridge, your beans staying fresh means eating them within three to five days.
Ensure they’re at a cool temperature for the best quality.
Always smell and check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the Wrong Type of Beans
You might be tempted to grab any beans off the shelf, but the type you use matters.
Stick with navy beans or other thick-skinned varieties for their texture.
This choice helps maintain a nice, hearty consistency.
Skipping the Soak
If you’re using dried beans, it’s crucial to soak them properly.
Skipping or shortening the soak time can lead to unpleasantly tough beans.
Make sure to give them a good soak overnight.
Not Draining Fat from Meat
When using ground beef or bacon, always drain off extra fat after cooking.
Excess fat can make the dish greasy, overshadowing other flavors.
By doing this, you help all the other ingredients shine!
Patti LaBelle Baked Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Ground Beef
- 1 can Baked Beans 32 oz.
- 1 Onion chopped
- 1 Green Pepper chopped
- 3 tbsp. Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp. Chili Powder
- 1 cup Barbecue Sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and get a large baking dish ready.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and green pepper to the beef. Cook until they are tender.
- In your baking dish, mix together baked beans, brown sugar, chili powder, barbecue sauce, and the beef mixture.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.