Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans: A Southern Classic

My grandmother, bless her heart, believed that no Southern barbecue was complete without a hefty helping of baked beans. I remember as a child, the anticipation of summer cookouts wasn’t just about the smoky ribs or the juicy burgers; it was equally about that earthenware pot brimming with sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible baked beans. The aroma alone, a symphony of molasses and bacon, would have us kids hovering around the kitchen, eager for a taste. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that reminds me of those cherished family gatherings: Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans, made famous by Paula Deen. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a taste of home.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 12-16
• Yield: 1 large casserole dish
• Dietary Type: Not specified (contains meat and may contain gluten depending on barbecue sauce and French-fried onions)

Ingredients

• 4 (16 ounce) cans baked beans
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple
• 1 cup molasses (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 (6 ounce) can French-fried onions, crushed
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Cookie sheet (optional, for catching spills)
• Can opener

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. This includes the baked beans, crushed pineapple, molasses (if using), barbecue sauce, yellow mustard, cooked and crumbled bacon, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Before adding the French-fried onions, crush them in the can or in a separate bag. This prevents large clumps and ensures an even distribution of flavor. Add only half of the crushed onions to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Reserve the remaining half for topping the casserole.
4. Thoroughly mix all the ingredients together, ensuring everything is well combined.
5. Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Pour the bean mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
7. Sprinkle the remaining crushed French-fried onions evenly over the top of the bean mixture.
8. Because the casserole dish will be very full, it’s recommended to place it on a cookie sheet to catch any potential spills during baking. This will save you from having to clean a messy oven!
9. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the beans are bubbling and the onions are golden brown.
10. Once the beans are bubbly and heated through, carefully remove the casserole dish from the oven.
11. Let cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Adjust sweetness to your liking: The original recipe calls for a full cup of molasses, but many find it too sweet. Start with half a cup and add more to taste, or omit it entirely for a less sweet version. The sweetness of your barbecue sauce will also affect the overall flavor.
• Bacon is king: Don’t skimp on the bacon! The smoky, savory flavor of bacon is essential to this dish. Use thick-cut bacon for even more flavor. Make sure the bacon is cooked and crumbled well, before adding it to the bowl.
• Crushed Pineapple for Flavor: The crushed pineapple adds sweetness, acidity, and moisture. It’s an integral part of the baked bean recipe. Do not omit it.
• Spice it up (or down): If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
• Customize the beans: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans. A mix of kidney beans, pinto beans, and great northern beans can add depth and texture. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans or cannellini beans.
• Make-Ahead Magic: These baked beans can be made a day or two in advance. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time to ensure the beans are heated through.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans are best served warm as a side dish. They pair perfectly with grilled meats like ribs, chicken, or burgers. They are also a great addition to potlucks and barbecues.

Serving: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few more crumbled bacon pieces for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a rustic bowl or casserole dish to enhance the Southern charm.

Storage: Leftover baked beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: Reheat the beans in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 15-20 minutes.

Freezing: While baked beans can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze them, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	223.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	23%
Total Fat	2.6 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.7 g	3%
Cholesterol	2.7 mg	0%
Sodium	788.5 mg	32%
Total Carbohydrate	47.5 g	15%
Dietary Fiber	6.8 g	27%
Sugars	24.3 g	N/A
Protein	8 g	16%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed lentils or black beans for added protein.
• Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Substitute brown sugar for some or all of the molasses for a different type of sweetness.
• Onion Powder: If you don’t have garlic powder, onion powder is a great alternative.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use different types of baked beans?
A: Yes, you can use any brand or type of baked beans you prefer. Different brands will have slightly different flavor profiles, so adjust other ingredients to your liking.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the beans?
A: Absolutely! Diced onions, bell peppers, or even corn can be added for extra flavor and texture.

Q: How do I prevent the beans from drying out while baking?
A: If the beans seem to be drying out, add a little water or broth to the casserole dish during baking.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook these beans in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.

Q: What is the best way to reheat these baked beans?
A: Reheat the beans in the microwave, in a saucepan over medium heat, or in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through.

Final Thoughts

Sue and Gloria’s Baked Beans are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of Southern hospitality and good old-fashioned comfort food. This recipe, passed down through generations, is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply craving a taste of home, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be transported to a place where the flavors are bold, the company is warm, and the memories are sweet. And be sure to pair it with some crispy fried chicken and a tall glass of iced tea!