Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the ultimate side dish, combining smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in a rich, hearty casserole. This recipe elevates a classic favorite by layering tender pork and beans with caramelized onions, bell peppers, and a luscious sauce made from brown sugar, molasses, and cider vinegar. The crispy bacon topping adds a smoky, savory crunch, making this dish a perfect accompaniment to barbecues, potlucks, or family gatherings.
The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a thick, almost caramelized consistency that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re pairing these beans with grilled meats or serving them as a standalone dish, their bold, balanced taste is sure to make them a standout hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: Smoky bacon, sweet molasses, and tangy vinegar create an irresistible combination.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed favorite for gatherings and potlucks.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
• 10 slices bacon, diced
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• ½ green bell pepper, finely diced
• 54 oz can pork and beans (or 4 cans, 15.5 oz each)
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• ¼ cup molasses
• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
1. Cook the bacon about halfway through, using your preferred method (pan-frying or baking).
2. Drain the bacon on paper towels and allow it to cool. Roughly chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Adjust the oven rack to the lower-middle position.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In a deep skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease (or butter) over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
1. Add the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, cider vinegar, and dry mustard to the skillet.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then let the mixture simmer for about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
1. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish or a 3-quart casserole dish.
2. Pour the pork and beans into the prepared dish.
3. Stir in the sautéed vegetable and sauce mixture until well combined.
4. Lay the cooked bacon pieces evenly on top of the beans.
Step 6: Bake the Beans
1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 2-3 hours.
2. Check the beans occasionally to ensure they reach your desired consistency (longer baking yields thicker beans).
Step 7: Cool and Serve
1. Allow the beans to stand for about 5 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, smoky-sweet flavors.
Tips
• Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version (replace bacon grease with butter or olive oil).
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the brown sugar and molasses for a sweeter or less sweet sauce.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: Allow the beans to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are a timeless dish that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled ribs to cornbread. Their deep, smoky sweetness and rich texture make them the perfect addition to any feast.
