Change Up Your Chili Dog With A Sweeter Canned Staple

Summer cookouts are all about enjoying the great outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and, of course, digging into mouthwatering food. When it comes to grilling hot dogs, the classic pairing of chili and cheese is hard to beat. However, preparing a delicious chili can be quite time-consuming, especially when you have a long list of others to prepare. That's where canned baked beans come to the rescue.

Canned baked beans offer a convenient and time-saving alternative to chili while still providing a hefty topping to your meal. They come pre-cooked and packed with rich, savory goodness, saving you valuable prep time and allowing you to focus on other aspects of your cookout.

Not only do baked beans offer an efficient option, but they also bring a different and sweeter flavor to the table. While chili typically provides a hearty and spicy kick, baked beans offer a subtle saccharine element that adds a unique twist to your hot dogs. The contrast of the sweet beans and the smoky flavor of the grilled meat creates a harmonious balance of tastes.

Of course, the beauty of canned baked beans is that they are already cooked. All you have to do is warm them up in a small pot over medium heat, stirring a few times throughout to make sure the beans are cooked evenly. Once they have reached a simmer, which should take around five to six minutes, they can be removed from the heat and served.

And if you're craving the bold flavors of chili but still want the convenience of canned baked beans, fear not. You can easily transform the baked beans to taste more like chili by incorporating a few simple additions. You can add a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or paprika to your baked beans to give them a kick. Adjust the amount of spices based on your personal preference. Additionally, try sautéing some diced onions and bell peppers or cook some crispy bacon, and stir them into the baked beans for more texture and savoriness.