Kielbasa Baked Beans is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the smoky richness of kielbasa sausage with the comforting taste of baked beans. This dish is a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making it an ideal side for BBQs, potlucks, or as a satisfying meal on its own. The addition of kielbasa elevates the traditional baked beans, adding depth and a meaty texture that’s sure to please. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or simply want a delicious and easy dish that’s packed with flavor, Kielbasa Baked Beans is a versatile choice that won’t disappoint.
Why You’ll Love Kielbasa Baked Beans
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of kielbasa and beans creates a deep, satisfying taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an effortless dish to prepare.
- Versatile: Serve as a side dish or a main course, making it perfect for various occasions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its hearty nature and delicious flavor make it a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients Notes
- Kielbasa: Use smoked kielbasa sausage for its distinctive flavor, sliced into bite-sized pieces.
- Beans: Canned baked beans provide a convenient and tasty base. You can use pork and beans as an alternative.
- Onion and Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
- Brown Sugar and Mustard: Enhance the beans’ sweetness and tanginess.
- Barbecue Sauce: Gives the beans a smoky, rich flavor. Choose your favorite brand or a homemade version.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity and a slight umami note.
Recipe Steps
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven if you choose to bake the dish.
- Brown the Kielbasa: In a skillet, brown the sliced kielbasa until slightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned beans, brown sugar, mustard, barbecue sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the sautéed onions, garlic, and kielbasa. Mix well.
- Bake or Simmer: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and heated through, about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can simmer the mixture in a pot on the stove until thoroughly warmed.
- Serve: Enjoy the kielbasa baked beans hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm up in a pot over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Easy Recipe for Kielbasa Baked Beans
Ingredients
- Kielbasa sausage: 1 lb (450g), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- Canned baked beans: 2 cans (28 oz each), do not drain
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Green bell pepper: 1, diced (optional)
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup (adjust to taste)
- Mustard: 2 tablespoons (yellow or Dijon)
- Ketchup: 1/2 cup
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons (for a tangy kick)
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for extra smokiness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the Kielbasa:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced kielbasa until it starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion (and bell pepper if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened and slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned baked beans (with their sauce), brown sugar, mustard, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Add the cooked kielbasa and sautéed vegetables to the bowl and mix well.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
- Serve:
- Let the baked beans rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be served hot as a main course or side dish.