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Hog-Apple Baked Beans
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- #79849
These are some seriously next-level baked beans! Bacon, apple pie filling, and leftover BBQ turn a side dish into the main event.
serves/makes:
ready in:
1-2 hrs
1-2 hrs
7 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
4 slices bacon, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cans (27 ounce size) baked beans
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1 pound cooked pork or beef, or crumbled cooked sausage
1 can (15 ounce size) apple pie filling
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons prepared mustard
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 teaspoon rib rub
directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
In a Dutch oven, combine the diced bacon, onion, and green pepper over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the bacon is browned and the vegetables have started to soften.
Add the beans, barbecue sauce, meat, apple pie filling, brown sugar, Worcestershire, mustard, cayenne pepper, and rib rub. Mix well then transfer the pan to the oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour at 325 degrees F. Alternately, you can cover it and cook on the stovetop on low for 30 minutes.
Recipe Source: Adapted from Keri C, of Tulsa, OK
recipe tips
For added smoky flavor, include a teaspoon of smoked paprika in the mix.
Try using different types of barbecue sauce to vary the flavor.
Stir the bean mixture occasionally while baking.
Try adding other ingredients like chopped jalapenos for more heat or red bell peppers for sweetness.
Make sure the Dutch oven is oven-safe before transferring it to the oven.
Cooking the beans on the stovetop will yield a softer texture, while baking gives a thicker consistency and more developed flavors.
Use a slotted spoon to serve if the mixture is too liquidy.
common recipe questions
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used, but it will yield a less rich flavor. And, it won't render the fat needed to cook the vegetables so you may need to add some oil to the Dutch oven.
What can I substitute for the green bell pepper?
Red bell pepper or celery can be used as alternatives.
Is there a vegetarian option for the meat?
For a vegetarian version, omit the meat or use a plant-based meat substitute.
Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned?
Yes, homemade apple pie filling will work just fine.
Is the brown sugar necessary?
The brown sugar adds sweetness, balancing the flavors, but can be reduced if desired.
What can I use if I don’t have prepared mustard?
Dijon mustard or a teaspoon of dry mustard powder can be used.
Can I reduce the cayenne pepper for less heat?
Yes, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to taste.
What is rib rub and can I make it myself?
Rib rub is a mixture of spices used for barbecuing. You can make a simple version with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
What type of pork or beef do I use?
It's left vague because you can use a variety of things such as ground beef, stew meat, pork loin, sausage, etc. You could even use poultry.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.
nutrition data
309 calories, 8 grams fat, 46 grams carbohydrates, 18 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
May 24, 2025
YES! These are my go-to baked beans now. The apple pie filling sends these baked beans over the top. Everyone loves them, but you should see the looks on their faces when I mention the apple pie filling! They are a keeper!
February 19, 2023
Iâve made these beans many times but am just now getting around to reviewing them. I have brought them to work potlucks and holiday dinners. Absolutely everyone who tries them loves them and there are never leftovers. Theyâre one of my husbandâs top favorite meals that I make! I only use 1/4 cup brown sugar, leave out the cayenne and use a few generous shakes of Kent Rollins original seasoning. I donât like green peppers so sub a red one for the green. I found that the bacon doesnât crisp up very well cooking the vegetables with it so I cook the bacon first, pour off most of the fat and cook the veg in the remaining fat. I also kind of pick the apple slices out of the can of pie filling so not too much of the gel goes into the dish and make it overly sweet. Have used several different kinds of BBQ sauce and it doesnât seem to make much difference as itâs wonderful every time. Just little nitpicky changes to suit our taste. So easy to put together and you can either bake it or cook on stovetop in your Dutch oven, or put it in an aluminum roaster and smoke it on your smoker.
June 10, 2022
I have it on my smoker as I type this. Can't wait to try it warm and smoked. I tested it cold and it was delicious.
February 18, 2020
Absolutely the best beans I have ever served. They never last very long as a leftover. I have used a couple different sweet and spicy bbq brands and they all have worked well. Great recipe and totally 5 stars!!
My husband and I have an Electric Smoker and I definitely will make this. Anxious to try it.
September 7, 2013
Kerri, I have been making these beans since the recipe was posted on our company's intranet with a story about your barbecue team. Everyone always raves about them and asks for the recipe. I am now required to bring them to our church picnic every year.
August 13, 2013
THis recipe has all the right elements of porky, sweet, and spicy. Fantastic recipe which is now my new standard for baked beans.
July 5, 2013
when I saw this recipe I thought to myself, it just might be crazy enough to work. I wasn't sure what bbq sauce to get so i bought a couple different ones to experiment with. I ended up using a smoky sweet one with a kick. It has to have the sweet element but not too much. The apple pie filling is the real key ingredient. I never would have thought to include it. I left the chipotle amount as written because I felt that it would probably be balanced out by the sweetness of the apples and I felt it was. This is a great recipe that is loved by everyone and ooohed and ahhed over by foodies in the know. Everyone will think you are brilliant for making this.