I believed my aunt’s recipe was lost for good, but I rediscovered it and it’s even tastier.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baked beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked onion and garlic.

Pour the bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the browned sausage slices evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.

Let it cool slightly before serving.

For a spicier version, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the bean mixture. You can also use different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian or chorizo, for a unique flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sliced mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. Adding a handful of shredded cheese on top before baking can also add a delicious, gooey layer to the dish.