If you’re craving a dish that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the vibrant, bold flavors of Southwest-inspired spices, this Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe is about to become your new favorite comfort food. It brings together tender pinto and kidney beans swimming in a tangy, smoky sauce with a little heat from jalapeños, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you need a standout side for your barbecue or a hearty meatless main, this recipe delivers big on flavor and warmth in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe are straightforward but mighty in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the crispy bacon pieces that add crunch and smoky depth, to the fresh red bell peppers and onions that provide color and sweetness, each ingredient plays an essential role in transforming simple beans into a mouthwatering dish.
- Bacon (8 slices, cooked and cut into 1⁄2” pieces): Adds smoky, crispy texture and rich flavor that elevates the beans.
- Bacon Grease (2 tablespoons): Used to sauté vegetables for an extra savory base.
- Pinto Beans (4 cans, 15oz each, rinsed and drained): Tender and creamy, they form the hearty foundation of the dish.
- Kidney Beans (2 cans, 15oz each, rinsed and drained): These beans add a lovely color contrast and a firmer bite for variety.
- Red Onion (1 small, diced): Gives a mild sweetness that balances the spices.
- Red Bell Pepper (1 small, diced): Brings a fresh, vibrant crunch and mild flavor.
- Jalapeño (1, seeded and diced): Provides a gentle but zesty kick, adjustable to your heat preference.
- BBQ Sauce (1½ cups): The smoky, tangy heart of the sauce that dresses the beans perfectly.
- Ketchup (½ cup): Adds sweetness and depth, harmonizing the spicy and savory elements.
- Spicy Brown Mustard (2 tablespoons): Injects a subtle tang and complexity to the mix.
- Minced Garlic (2 tablespoons): Essential for aromatic depth that wakes up the palate.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the natural taste of the ingredients.
- Black Pepper (1 teaspoon, optional garnish): Adds a final hit of warmth and spice.
- Cilantro (optional garnish): Fresh herbaceous brightness that livens up the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Make Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, cook the bacon slices in a large skillet until they are crispy and perfectly golden. Set the bacon aside and carefully reserve about two tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet—this flavorful fat will be the key to sautéing your vegetables and infusing the dish with smoky goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Into the skillet with the warm bacon grease, add your diced red onions, red bell peppers, jalapeño, and minced garlic. Cook them gently for about four minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and release their vibrant aromas. This step builds an irresistible base of sweetness and heat that will carry through the whole recipe.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Casserole Dish
Grab a large casserole dish and add the rinsed and drained pinto and kidney beans along with the sautéed vegetables and bacon pieces. Pour in the BBQ sauce, ketchup, and spicy brown mustard, then sprinkle in the salt. Stir everything thoroughly until every bean is coated in the zesty, smoky sauce that will bake into thick, luscious goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole dish into your preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 45 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, the beans will get tender, and the sauce will thicken and bubble up, resulting in that classic, irresistible baked bean texture and taste that every Tex-Mex fan adores.
How to Serve Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe
Garnishes
When your Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe comes out of the oven, consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a dash of black pepper for a fresh and peppery finish. These garnishes add layers of flavor and a burst of color that make the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish is incredibly versatile as a side. Serve it alongside grilled meats like juicy steaks, smoky ribs, or tender chicken for a classic barbecue plate. It also pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips for scooping, making it a family-friendly hit at any occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get creative? Spoon your Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe over baked potatoes or use it as a flavorful filling for stuffed peppers. You can even top nachos or tacos with a dollop to add a rich, hearty element to your Tex-Mex spread. It’s a seriously fun and tasty way to mix up your meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day just as delicious. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy this tasty dish again without any fuss.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish on hand for a later meal, freezing is an excellent option. Place the beans in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to retain that perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the beans moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and bacon grease, and consider using smoked paprika or chipotle powder to add that smoky flavor. Use your favorite plant-based BBQ sauce to keep the vibrancy without any animal products.
Is it necessary to rinse canned beans before using them?
Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and the canning liquid, which can sometimes have a slightly metallic flavor. It also helps the beans better absorb the delicious sauce in this recipe.
Can I adjust the heat level in this recipe?
Definitely! The jalapeño can be reduced or omitted if you want a milder flavored dish, or you can add more for extra kick. Also, using a milder BBQ sauce or mustard can tone down the overall heat.
What’s the best way to prevent the beans from drying out while baking?
Ensuring there’s enough BBQ sauce and ketchup in the mix provides moisture, and baking the dish uncovered at 350 degrees helps thicken the sauce without drying it out. If necessary, cover loosely with foil during baking to retain extra moisture.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! This Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe scales up beautifully. Just use a larger baking dish and increase the cooking time slightly, checking doneness and bubbling every so often. It’s perfect for potlucks or big family dinners.
Final Thoughts
Making this Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe is like inviting a fiesta of flavors into your kitchen. It’s simple, delicious, and strikes the perfect balance between smoky, spicy, and sweet. Once you try it, this dish will happily become part of your regular rotation for gatherings or cozy nights in. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Tex-Mex Baked Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
Tex-Mex Baked Beans are a hearty and flavorful dish that combines smoky bacon, tender pinto and kidney beans, sautéed vegetables, and a tangy BBQ sauce blend. This baked casserole is perfect as a side for barbecues, family dinners, or any gathering, delivering a delicious Tex-Mex twist on classic baked beans.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices Bacon, cooked and cut into 1/2” pieces
- 2 tablespoons Bacon Grease
- 4 (15 oz) cans Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 (15 oz) cans Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 small Red Onion, diced
- 1 small Red Bell Pepper, diced
- 1 Jalapeño, seeded and diced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ Sauce
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Spicy Brown Mustard
- 2 tablespoons Minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (for garnish, optional)
- Cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Bacon: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crisp. Once cooked, set the bacon aside and reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet for later use.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the diced red onions, red bell peppers, jalapeños, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 4 minutes or until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked bacon pieces, sautéed vegetables, rinsed and drained pinto and kidney beans, BBQ sauce, ketchup, spicy brown mustard, and salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Bake the Beans: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the beans to heat through thoroughly.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the baked beans from the oven. Optionally, garnish with freshly ground black pepper and chopped cilantro before serving for added flavor and color.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon.
- If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the jalapeño.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or cornbread.
- Make sure to rinse beans well to reduce sodium and improve texture.
