Dr. Pepper Baked Beans are the ultimate side dish when you want something smoky, sweet, and a little unexpected. The rich flavor of molasses and barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the subtle spice of Dr. Pepper. This dish is made in a cast iron skillet and baked until bubbling and thick, making it a crowd-pleaser for backyard barbecues or cozy dinners at home.

You’ll love how easy it is to pull this dish together with just a handful of pantry staples and a few cans of pinto beans. The bacon and onion give it a hearty base, while the Dr. Pepper adds depth and sweetness that sets these beans apart from the usual. If you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional baked beans, this recipe is definitely worth making.

Helpful Tips

Use thick-cut bacon for a richer, meatier texture that holds up well during baking.
If your sauce isn’t thickening enough after the time specified, continue to cook it until it’s reduced enough, but keep in mind that it will thicken as it cools.
Taste before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to balance the sweetness.

Dr. Pepper Baked Beans

The rich flavor of molasses and barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the subtle spice of Dr. Pepper.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings servings

Calories 248 kcal

Ingredients

4 slices thick-cut bacon diced
½ medium yellow onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1/2 cup tomato sauce
12 fl oz Dr. Pepper
⅓ cup barbecue sauce
¼ cup molasses
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
3 15 oz cans pinto beans drained

Instructions

Preheat oven or outdoor grill to 350°F (175°C).
In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat. Once about half cooked, about 3 minutes, add the onions and cook on medium-low heat for 8 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Add the tomato sauce, Dr. Pepper, barbecue sauce, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and mustard powder. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Add the beans and bring to a simmer. Cook in the oven or on the grill, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens, about 20 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper, as needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 248kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 355mgPotassium: 573mgFiber: 6gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 102IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 64mgIron: 2mg

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