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Beans and Franks

Beans and franks in a cast iron pan on a gas stove

A nostalgic favorite for summertime cookouts and quick camping meals, Beans and Franks blends sweet baked beans with savory hot dogs and smoky bacon. This simple CaribbeanPot.com take on the classic “franks and beans” adds sautéed peppers, onions, thyme, and a touch of brown sugar for extra depth. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a laid-back dinner with a side of toast.

Beans and franks in cast iron skillet

Ingredient Guide

  • Hot dogs (Franks): The main protein, slice and sauté for flavor.
  • Bacon strips: Renders fat and adds smoky richness.
  • Onion and scallion: Provide aromatic sweetness and complexity.
  • Bell peppers: Add color, sweetness, and texture.
  • Fresh thyme: Herbal notes deepen the dish.
  • Baked beans: The base, so pick a good-quality canned brand.
  • Brown sugar: Balances acidity and enhances caramelization.

Shopping Made Easy

  • Hot dogs and bacon are widely available; opt for your favorite brand.
  • Use fresh scallions, onions, and bell peppers from your produce section for peak flavor.
  • Baked beans are usually found near canned beans. Choose low-sodium if preferred.

Cooking Notes from the Kitchen

  • Render bacon over low heat first to get crisp edges without burning.
  • Use the bacon fat to brown franks, adding flavor without the need for extra oil.
  • Keep the heat medium-low when adding beans and sugar to avoid burning.
  • Don’t over-stir after adding scallions to maintain crispness.
  • Serve on toast or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

What is Beans and Franks made of?

Beans and Franks is a simple dish of baked beans and hot dogs, sometimes with bacon, onions, and sweet seasonings, easy to make and comforting.

Is Beans and Franks a traditional Caribbean recipe?

It’s not traditionally Caribbean, but this version adds Caribbean‑style sautéed aromatics and thyme for extra flavor

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit bacon and hot dogs; sauté onions and peppers in oil, then add beans and brown sugar for a meatless version.

How long do Beans and Franks last in the fridge?

Beans and Franks will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For best results, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened. Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Are homemade baked beans better than canned?

Homemade baked beans offer fresher flavor and control over sweetness, but good-quality canned beans save time and still deliver delicious results.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes. Cook the dish completely, allow it to cool, then freeze in sealed containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water if the mixture has thickened.

How can I spice this up?

Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce with the baked beans for a savory kick.

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 20 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Diet: Beef
Description

A nostalgic one‑pot dish of baked beans, hot dogs, bacon, peppers, and thyme, ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients
  • 5-8 hot dogs (franks)
  • 6-8 strips bacon
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 2 stalks scallions (chopped)
  • 2 cups bell peppers (assorted sweet peppers)
  • 4-6 sprigs thyme (just the leaves)
  • 1 can baked beans
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust accordingly)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (raw cane sugar)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Dry cast iron pan with raw strips of bacon in it on a gas stove

    Place bacon in a cold pan, heat to medium, and cook until browned and fat is rendered. Remove bacon and set aside.

  2. 2
    Cast iron pan with crispy bacon strips cooking in it on a gas stove

    Reduce heat to medium-low; add sliced franks to the bacon fat and brown. Remove any excess fat if over 2 tablespoons.

  3. 3
    Chopped onion and hot dogs in a cast iron pan cooking in bacon fat

    Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3–5 minutes), then stir in bell peppers, thyme, salt, and black pepper; cook until peppers soften (3–5 minutes).

  4. 4
    Onions, bell peppers, spices, and hot dogs cooking in a cast iron pan

    Return chopped bacon, add baked beans, and sprinkle brown sugar; stir gently to combine.

  5. 5
    Added in beans and cooked bacon into the pan to continue cooking

    Cook another 3–5 minutes, then add scallions, stir, and remove from heat.

     

  6. 6
    Scallions added to all ingredients in the pan as a final flourish

    Serve hot on toast or in bowls for a one‑pot meal.

Read it online: https://caribbeanpot.com/recipes/beans-and-franks/