Grilling Goodness: How to Cook Baked Beans on the Grill

Baked beans are a staple in many American households. This delicious side dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats and adds a hearty sweetness to your barbecue spread. But did you know that cooking baked beans on the grill can elevate their flavor and bring a smoky twist to this classic dish? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to cook baked beans on the grill while sharing tips, recipes, and grilling techniques that will impress your guests and make your summer cookouts memorable.

The Benefits of Grilling Baked Beans

Cooking baked beans on the grill offers several advantages compared to traditional stovetop or oven methods.

Enhances Flavor: Grilling adds a unique smoky flavor profile that can’t be replicated in an oven. The heat from the grill caramelizes the sugars in the beans and sauce, creating a richer taste.

Convenience: When you’re already grilling meat, preparing baked beans on the same grill saves you time and effort. It allows you to keep everything in one cooking area, making it simpler to serve up a delicious meal.

Versatility: Grilling baked beans provides an opportunity to customize the recipe according to your preferences. You can experiment with different beans, seasonings, and even add-ins that reflect your taste.

Choosing the Right Beans for Grilling

Not all beans are created equal when it comes to grilling. Here are the most commonly used beans for baked bean recipes:

Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are popular in baked bean recipes due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors well. They are often used in traditional baked beans.

Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are larger and have a robust flavor. They contribute to a heartier dish and stand up well against bold seasonings.

Navy Beans

Navy beans are small, mild, and become incredibly tender when cooked. They are the classic choice for New England-style baked beans.

Black Beans

Black beans bring a different taste and texture to the mix. They can add a unique flair to your grilled beans and work well with south-of-the-border flavors.

Now that you understand the types of beans, let’s dive into how to prepare them and cook baked beans on the grill.

Preparation Steps

Preparing beans for grilling is essential for achieving the right consistency and flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.

Step 1: Choose Your Beans

Select the type of bean you prefer. You can go with a single type or create a blend for variety.

Step 2: Soak the Beans

If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight in plenty of water. This process hydrates the beans, reduces cooking time, and helps in digestion. If you’re short on time, you can boil the beans for 2-3 minutes and let them sit, covered, for an hour instead.

Step 3: Pre-Cook the Beans

After soaking, cook the beans until they’re tender but not mushy. You can either boil them in a pot or use a pressure cooker. Drain and set them aside.

Ingredients for Grilled Baked Beans

Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe for grilled baked beans. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preference:

Cooking Baked Beans on the Grill

Once you’ve prepared your beans and gathered your ingredients, follow these steps to cook your baked beans on the grill:

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to a medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). A stable temperature is crucial for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bean Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beans, bacon (if using), onion, garlic, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Use a Grill-Proof Cooking Dish

Transfer the bean mixture into a heavy-duty, grill-safe cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven. Alternatively, you can use aluminum foil to create a secure pouch for the beans.

Step 4: Place on the Grill

Place the skillet or foil pouch on the grill grates. Make sure it’s sitting securely and won’t tip over.

Step 5: Monitor Cooking Time

Cook your baked beans on the grill for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using a covered grill, keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat. You want the sauce to bubble and thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

After about 30 minutes, check the beans to see if they have reached your desired texture and flavor. If they need more cooking, allow them to grill for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the baked beans are done, carefully remove them from the grill and let them sit for a few minutes. This resting time will help the flavors further develop. Serve the beans hot as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Baked Beans

To ensure that your grilled baked beans turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Tip 1: Experiment with Add-Ins

Consider adding in extras such as bell peppers, jalapeños, or even a splash of bourbon for a unique twist.

Tip 2: Sweetness Balance

Balancing sweetness is key! Adjust the sugar to suit your taste. Some people may prefer a sweeter sauce, while others enjoy a more tangy flavor.

Tip 3: Use Quality Beans

For the best results, use high-quality dried beans, as they will provide better flavor and texture compared to canned beans.

Grilling Variations

While traditional baked beans are always a hit, there are numerous variations you can try to elevate your dish.

BBQ Chicken Baked Beans

Incorporate shredded cooked chicken and your favorite BBQ sauce for a meaty twist.

Chili Baked Beans

Combine your bean mixture with ground beef or turkey and add chili seasoning for a hearty dish.

Pairing Grilled Baked Beans

Grilled baked beans work well with a variety of grilled meats and sides. Here are a few pairing ideas to complete your cookout:

• Grilled Ribs: The sweetness of the baked beans complements the smoky flavor of BBQ ribs.
• Grilled Burgers: Baked beans are perfect alongside juicy burgers, adding diversity to the meal.

Concluding Thoughts

Grilling baked beans adds a delightful twist to this classic dish. With the right preparation, ingredients, and techniques, you can create a flavorful and satisfying side that will impress your family and friends at your next BBQ. Whether you choose traditional flavors or get creative with variations, the smoky flavor from the grill will elevate your baked beans to a whole new level. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and let the mouth-watering aroma of grilled baked beans fill your backyard! Happy grilling!

What ingredients do I need to make baked beans on the grill?

To make delicious baked beans on the grill, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. The base typically includes canned baked beans, which save time and provide great flavor. You’ll also want to add some diced onion and bell pepper for sweetness and depth. For a smoky taste, consider including bacon or smoked sausage, and then enhance the dish with condiments such as barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and mustard.

Feel free to customize your baked beans by adding extra ingredients like jalapeños for heat or garlic for additional flavor. Some people also like to incorporate molasses or Worcestershire sauce for a richer taste. Remember that the beauty of grilling is experimentation, so don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe according to your preferences!

How do I prepare the baked beans for grilling?

Preparation for grilling baked beans is quite simple. Start by preheating your grill to a medium heat, ideally between 350°F to 400°F. Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine your canned baked beans with the additional ingredients you’ve chosen, such as diced onions, barbecue sauce, and any meats. Stir everything well to ensure that all the flavors blend together.

After mixing, transfer the bean mixture to a suitable grilling pan or a cast iron skillet. This will prevent the beans from falling through the grill grates. Cover the pan with aluminum foil, which helps to keep the moisture in and promotes even cooking. Your baked beans are now ready to be placed on the grill!

How long does it take to grill baked beans?

Grilling baked beans usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and for the beans to heat thoroughly. You’ll want to place your pan of beans on the grill, then cover the grill lid to retain heat.

During cooking, it’s a good idea to check on the beans every 10 to 15 minutes. You can remove the foil during the last 10 minutes if you’d like to create a caramelized top. This step will enhance the texture and add a touch of crispiness, making for an even more enjoyable dish.

Can I make baked beans ahead of time for grilling?

Yes, you can definitely prepare baked beans ahead of time! Making the beans in advance can help deepen the flavors as they sit in the refrigerator. After preparing the mixture, simply cover it and refrigerate for up to a day before you plan to grill. Just make sure to give the mixture a good stir before placing it on the grill.

When you’re ready to grill, take the beans out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow them to warm slightly before cooking. Then, you can follow the usual grilling instructions to achieve that smoky grilled flavor you’re looking for.

What should I serve with grilled baked beans?

Grilled baked beans pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making them a versatile side. Traditionally, they are served alongside barbecue favorites such as grilled meats (ribs, chicken, or burgers), making for a hearty meal. The sweet and savory nature of the beans complements the rich flavors of grilled entrees.

Additionally, consider serving baked beans alongside coleslaw, corn-on-the-cob, or cornbread. These sides can enhance the meal’s overall experience, providing a balance of textures and flavors. For a lighter option, grilled vegetables can be a great choice to add freshness to your plate.

Can I make baked beans on a gas grill or charcoal grill?

Absolutely, you can make baked beans on either a gas grill or a charcoal grill. The method remains largely the same, though there are slight adjustments that can enhance flavor. On a charcoal grill, you can create different heat zones by using more or fewer coals, allowing for indirect grilling if desired. This method may help to achieve a more smoky flavor.

On a gas grill, simply make sure to maintain consistent heat. As with charcoal, you can use a grill pan or cast iron skillet to hold the beans. Whichever type of grill you choose, the key is keeping the beans covered with foil during most of the cooking time to ensure they stay moist and flavorful.