There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines sweet, smoky, and savory flavors all in one bite. These Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the ultimate side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just craving something hearty, these baked beans will hit the spot. The rich flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet molasses and brown sugar, while the beans themselves become tender and infused with all that deliciousness as they bake. Trust me, this dish is about to become a regular on your menu!

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours, even though it only takes a few minutes to prep. The brown sugar gives the beans a deep, caramel-like sweetness that balances the smoky bacon, while a splash of vinegar adds just the right amount of tang. Whether you’re serving these beans alongside grilled meats, burgers, or enjoying them on their own, they’re sure to please.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this easy recipe. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can create a side dish that everyone will love!

Resume of the Recipe in Todd Wilbur’s Writing Style:

These Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an ideal side dish for any meal. The combination of crispy bacon, brown sugar, and molasses creates a rich, smoky flavor that will elevate your typical baked beans to something extraordinary. Ready in just a few simple steps, this dish is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any time you need a quick and delicious side.

With minimal prep and a short list of ingredients, these baked beans are both convenient and flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

The first time I made these Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans, it was for a family barbecue, and they were an instant hit! My husband couldn’t stop raving about how perfectly the sweetness of the brown sugar balanced with the smoky bacon. Even the kids, who usually shy away from beans, were coming back for more. Now, every time we have a family gathering, these beans are a must-have on the menu. I love how easy they are to make, yet they taste like you’ve spent all day perfecting them. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy winter dinner, these beans bring warmth and comfort to any meal.

Why These Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans:

• Sweet and Smoky: The combination of brown sugar, molasses, and bacon creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.
• Easy Prep: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue or a family dinner, these beans are sure to be a hit with everyone.

How to Make Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans:

1. Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork and beans, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, and vinegar. Stir in the cooked onions and most of the bacon, reserving a little bacon for topping.
4. Bake the Beans: Pour the bean mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are bubbly and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the beans from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These beans are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a potluck spread.

Tips For Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

• Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, cook it separately and add it to the beans just before serving.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, bake the beans uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
• Make Ahead: These beans can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetarian baked beans and omit the bacon. You can add a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Maple Flavor: Swap the brown sugar with maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar, or use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit.
• Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon for a lower-fat option.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium beans and bacon to cut down on salt.

Closing in Todd Wilbur Style:

And there you have it! These Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. They’re simple, delicious, and the perfect side for any occasion. Don’t forget to let us know how yours turn out, and be sure to check out some of our other comforting recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Can I use canned baked beans instead of pork and beans?
Yes, but adjust the seasoning as canned baked beans are often already flavored.

Can I make these beans in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook the bacon and onions as directed, then combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, these beans freeze well. Just let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container.

What’s the best way to reheat these beans?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in short intervals.

Can I use molasses substitutes?
If you don’t have molasses, you can use maple syrup or honey, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and adding some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Can I add other meats to this dish?
Sure! You can add diced ham, sausage, or even ground beef for a heartier dish.

How long do these beans last in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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Easy Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon, diced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cans (28 oz each) pork and beans

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1/4 cup molasses

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
• Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork and beans, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, and vinegar. Stir in the cooked onions and most of the bacon, reserving a little bacon for topping.
• Bake the Beans: Pour the bean mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are bubbly and the sauce has thickened.
• Serve and Enjoy: Remove the beans from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These beans are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a potluck spread.