Introduction
Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible side dish for any occasion. This recipe, featuring hearty beans simmered in a rich sauce and topped with crispy bacon, is sure to please a crowd. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or a potluck gathering, these baked beans will add a delightful touch to your table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 cups cooked beans (navy, pinto, or a mix)
– 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
Prep time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. With a little chopping and measuring, you’ll have everything ready to combine for a delightful mix that enhances the flavors of the beans and bacon.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the oven. The total time from prep to serving is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the rich, sweet, and smoky goodness of these baked beans, and watch them disappear from the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Reserve the bacon grease.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, add the chopped onions. Sauté until they are translucent and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bacon, sautéed onions, baked beans, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Beans
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the beans from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your brown sugar and bacon baked beans!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
These baked beans are a great side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any gathering.
Variations
Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers or different types of beans to customize the flavor.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Make Ahead
You can prepare the beans a day in advance and bake them right before serving.
Cook techniques
Preparing Beans
Soak the beans overnight to soften them, which helps in even cooking and enhances flavor.
Caramelizing Bacon
Cook bacon until crispy in a skillet to render fat and develop a rich, smoky flavor that complements the beans.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté onions and garlic in leftover bacon fat to infuse the dish with savory depth before adding other ingredients.
Layering Flavors
Combine ingredients gradually, including brown sugar and spices, to build a complex flavor profile in your baked beans.
Baking Technique
Bake the beans slowly in the oven to meld the flavors together, allowing for a thick and hearty consistency.
Final Touches
Sprinkle additional bacon on top in the last few minutes of baking for enhanced texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker preparation time. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
What type of bacon works best for baked beans?
Thick-cut bacon is recommended as it provides a nice texture and flavor without disintegrating during cooking.
How can I make these baked beans vegetarian?
You can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or omit it completely and add a bit of liquid smoke for flavor.
What should I serve with baked beans?
Baked beans pair well with grilled meats, cornbread, or a simple green salad.
Can leftovers be reheated?
Yes, baked beans can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
The Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans recipe offers a deliciously sweet and savory experience, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or family gatherings. The combination of rich flavors from the bacon and brown sugar creates a comforting dish that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether served as a side or a main highlight, these baked beans are a delightful addition to any meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pair your baked beans with succulent BBQ pulled pork sandwiches for a hearty meal that satisfies.
Cornbread Muffins
Serve alongside warm cornbread muffins to add a sweet, crumbly contrast to the savory beans.
Grilled Vegetables
Balance the richness of the baked beans with a platter of seasoned grilled vegetables for a fresh touch.
Coleslaw
A creamy coleslaw can bring a cool, crunchy texture that complements the warmth of the baked beans.
Macaroni and Cheese
For a comforting feast, combine baked beans with creamy macaroni and cheese for a delightful meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the baked beans as a filling for stuffed peppers to create a satisfying and colorful dish.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Serve with cheesy garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and enhance the flavor experience.
