Baked Beans with Bacon

Name: Baked Beans with Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 4 cups canned baked beans (drained and rinsed); 0.5 pound bacon (crispy and chopped); 0.5 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon brown sugar

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By: Maria
Posted: 11/26/2024

baked Beans with Bacon is the perfect side dish for cookouts, potlucks, or family dinners. This classic recipe features tender beans simmered in a rich, sweet, and smoky sauce topped with crispy, golden bacon. It’s the ultimate combination of hearty comfort food and bold flavors. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, these beans pair perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or cornbread.

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Ingredients

4 cans (15 oz each / 425g) baked beans, drained slightly
8 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
1 medium onion (about 5 oz / 140g), finely chopped
½ cup (120ml) ketchup
½ cup (120ml) barbecue sauce
⅓ cup (80ml) molasses
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
Sauté the Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
Mix the Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the ketchup, barbecue sauce, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed onions and a portion of the bacon, reserving some for garnish.
Assemble the Dish:
Pour the beans into a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Stir in the sauce mixture until evenly combined.
Bake the Beans:
Sprinkle the reserved bacon on top and bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are bubbling and the bacon is crispy.
Serve:
Let the beans rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Bean Options: While baked beans are classic, you can use navy beans or pinto beans for a heartier texture.
Add Heat: For a spicy kick, stir in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Pair these beans with barbecue ribs, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Baked Beans with Bacon is a versatile, crowd-pleasing side dish that never fails to impress. Sweet, smoky, and downright delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Baked Beans with Bacon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Baked Beans with Bacon up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish as instructed, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. Before serving, bake the beans uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until heated through and bubbling, and the bacon is crispy. You might need to add a little extra time to the baking process if the beans are cold from the refrigerator.

Are there any ingredient substitutions I can make in this Baked Beans with Bacon recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have baked beans, you can substitute them with 2 (28-ounce) cans of navy beans or pinto beans, drained. You may need to adjust the sauce to compensate for the lack of pre-seasoning in the beans. For a different flavor profile, try using maple syrup instead of molasses, using a 1:1 ratio. If you are out of yellow mustard, Dijon mustard can be used, though it might add a slightly tangier flavor.

How will I know when the Baked Beans with Bacon are perfectly cooked?

The Baked Beans with Bacon are done when they are bubbling around the edges and the sauce has thickened slightly. The bacon on top should be crispy and golden brown. The beans should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. You can also use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature; the beans should be heated through, ideally above 165°F (74°C).

Can I double or scale up this Baked Beans with Bacon recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or even triple this recipe. When doubling, use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are bubbling and the bacon is crispy. Ensure the baking dish is large enough to accommodate the increased volume without overflowing. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and check for doneness.

What are the nutritional benefits of this Baked Beans with Bacon recipe?

This Baked Beans with Bacon recipe offers a good source of fiber and protein from the beans. The beans also provide iron and B vitamins. The bacon adds protein and fat, contributing to the overall flavor and satiety. The molasses and brown sugar contribute some iron and trace minerals. Be mindful of the sodium content, which can be high depending on the brand of baked beans used.