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.
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.
Beans and Franks
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
- Place bacon in a cold pan, heat to medium, and cook until browned and fat is rendered. Remove bacon and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low; add sliced franks to the bacon fat and brown. Remove any excess fat if over 2 tablespoons.
- 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).
- Return chopped bacon, add baked beans, and sprinkle brown sugar; stir gently to combine.
- Cook another 3–5 minutes, then add scallions, stir, and remove from heat.
- Serve hot on toast or in bowls for a one‑pot meal.
