Looking to elevate your next barbecue or family meal? KFC’s BBQ Baked Beans are the perfect side dish to add a smoky, tangy twist to any meal. Packed with flavor and easy to make, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

A bowl of KFC-style BBQ baked beans, rich in smoky flavors, served as a perfect side dish.
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KFC BBQ Baked Beans are a flavorful and hearty side dish that perfectly complements any meal. Made with a blend of tender beans, smoky BBQ sauce, and a mix of spices, this dish offers a delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

The recipe is simple to prepare, with minimal ingredients that come together to create a savory treat that pairs well with grilled meats, fried chicken, or even on its own. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a comforting addition to your dinner table, KFC BBQ Baked Beans are sure to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe For KFC BBQ Baked Beans!

  • Rich, smoky flavor – Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy taste.
  • Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
  • Versatile side dish – Pairs with any meal, especially BBQ.
  • Comforting and hearty – Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
  • Crowd-pleasing – Loved by both kids and adults alike.
  • Minimal prep time – Get great flavor with little effort.
  • Affordable ingredients – Budget-friendly and accessible for all cooks.
  • Made in one pot – Easy cleanup with fewer dishes.

If you love Copycat Recipes try my recipe for Wingstop Blue Cheese Recipe, Air Fryer Popeyes Chicken Sandwich (Copycat)Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe, or Copycat Popeye’s Seafood Po’Boy Recipe.

KFC Baked Beans Ingredients

Ingredients needed for KFC BBQ Baked Beans on kitchen table.
  • Ketchup – Adds tangy sweetness and rich tomato flavor.
  • Mustard – Provides a zesty kick and balanced acidity.
  • Brown Sugar – Sweetens with a deep, molasses-like flavor.
  • Red Onion – Adds a mild, savory crunch and color.
  • Cooked Bacon – Brings smoky richness and crispy texture.
  • Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the flavors with basic seasoning.

How To Make KFC BBQ Baked Beans

Mixing bowl filled with baked beans, chopped bacon, red onion, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper, ready for baking at 350°F.

Step One: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Drain all the juice out of the can of beans and pour the beans into a mixing bowl. Slice the bacon into small pieces. Add the bacon, red onion, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, salt & pepper to the bowl.

KFC BBQ Baked Beans ingredients in bowl.

Step Two: Mix Well

Step Three: Pour into a cast-iron skillet or baking pan and bake for 15 minutes. To make in the air fryer, pour into a baking pan, and air fry at 330 degrees F, air fryer setting, until warmed through.

Bowl of KFC-style BBQ baked beans with a rich, smoky sauce, served as a flavorful side dish.

KFC BBQ Baked Beans Recipe Tips

  • Use Quality Beans: Choose canned pork & beans or baked beans for the best texture and flavor.
  • Enhance the Smokiness: Add a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for extra depth.
  • Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar and ketchup to suit your taste.
  • Crispy Bacon for Texture: Cook the bacon until crispy before adding for a better crunch.
  • Slow Cook for Best Flavor: Let the beans simmer or bake longer for a richer taste.
  • Add a Kick: A pinch of cayenne or hot sauce can bring a slight heat.
  • Stir Occasionally: Prevent sticking and ensure even cooking by stirring occasionally.
  • Let It Rest: Allow the beans to sit for a few minutes after baking to thicken the sauce.

Storing

  • Storing: Keep leftover KFC BBQ Baked Beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them cool completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
  • Freezing: Freeze the baked beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm the beans on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
Homemade KFC-style BBQ baked beans in a bowl, featuring a rich, smoky sauce and crispy bacon pieces.

What To Serve With KFC BBQ Baked Beans

KFC BBQ Baked Beans pair perfectly with a variety of dishes to create a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Classic choices include crispy fried chicken, grilled ribs, or juicy burgers, as the smoky, tangy flavors of the beans complement rich, savory meats.

For a true Southern-inspired spread, serve them alongside cornbread, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese for a balance of textures and flavors. If you’re looking for something lighter, try pairing them with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad to add freshness to your plate. No matter the occasion, these baked beans are a delicious side that enhances any meal!

KFC Baked Bean Recipe Faqs

What kind of beans are used in KFC BBQ Baked Beans? KFC-style baked beans typically use canned pork & beans or baked beans for a soft texture and rich flavor.

Can I make these baked beans without bacon? Yes! Simply omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version, or substitute with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

How can I make the beans taste smokier? Add a dash of liquid smoke, smoked paprika, or a bit of barbecue sauce with a smoky flavor to enhance the taste.

Can I make these beans in a slow cooker? Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

How do I thicken my baked beans if they are too runny? Let them bake longer to reduce excess liquid, or mash some of the beans to naturally thicken the sauce.

Are these beans spicy? The classic recipe is mild, but you can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

How long do homemade BBQ baked beans last? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Bowl of homemade KFC-style BBQ baked beans with a rich, smoky sauce, served as a classic barbecue side dish.

More Copycat KFC Recipes

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KFC BBQ Baked Beans

KFC BBQ Baked Beans

5 from 2 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Make KFC-style BBQ Baked Beans at home with this easy and flavorful recipe! Packed with smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors, these beans are the perfect side dish for barbecues, family dinners, and comfort food lovers.

Ingredients 

  • 28 ounces Baked Beans , or Pork & Beans
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup
  • 1/4 cup Mustard
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked

Instructions

  • Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F
  • Drain all the juice out of the can of beans and pour the beans into a mixing bowl.
  • Slice the bacon into small pieces.
  • Add the bacon, red onion, ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, salt & pepper to the bowl.
  • Mix well.
  • Pour into a cast-iron skillet or baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.

Equipment

  • Skillet, or Cast Iron Pan

Notes

To Air Fry: Prepare as directed and then place into an air fryer safe bowl, and heat at 330 degrees F, air fryer setting until warmed through, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 195kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 7gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 930mgPotassium: 392mgFiber: 6gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 49IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 69mgIron: 2mg

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