Whoa, Nelly. I never knew baked beans could be this good. I never knew baked beans could be improved upon. I never knew baked beans could be such a triumph, such a prayer, such a song.

But they can. I now know they can.

Pam Anderson—I sometimes like to call her “Pamanderson” just to conserve energy—whipped up some baked beans to go with her fall-off-the-bone slow cooker glazed ribs and Caesar salad once.

The beans? They were all that and a bag of doughnuts. And I live in one of the Southern states. I know about baked beans. I know about doughnuts, too. But that’s another story for another time. Bring these to a cookout once, and you’ll be asked to bring them again and again.

What makes these the best baked beans ever?

First and foremost, these baked beans are easy to make. They start with three big ol’ cans of pork and beans, but it’s the other ingredients you add that transforms them! That brings me to my next point: the other stuff. This recipe is filled with tangy barbecue sauce, sweet brown sugar, mustard for a kick, green pepper, onion, and the best addition of all: bacon. The beans are topped with strips of partially-cooked bacon, and baked low and slow until the bacon gets a little crispy and the beans thicken. The result is baked beans that are smoky, sweet, tangy, and absolutely unforgettable! You’ll never make them any other way.

What kind of bacon is best for baked beans?

Any strips of bacon will work (I say strips because Canadian bacon will NOT work), but thick-cut bacon is best for these beans. If you can find the peppered thick-cut bacon at your grocery store, that’s even better!

Can baked beans be made ahead of time?

In this recipe, baked beans can be made the night before. Just wait to add bacon topping for when you’re ready to bake the beans—that way, the bacon turns out nice and crispy! 

How long do baked beans last in the fridge?

Covered, the beans will last for two to three days in the refrigerator. You can pop the whole dish back in the oven to reheat it, or nuke smaller portions in the microwave.

What pairs well with baked beans?

Baked beans are one of the best BBQ recipes! Make them for all the patriotic holidays this summer alongside grilled ribs, BBQ chicken, and burgers. Add a few other classic BBQ sides and you’re ready for the cookout.

This Quick Southern-Style Baked Beans recipe is by Pam Anderson.