baked beans with bacon recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
baked beans with bacon recipe
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The Best baked beans with bacon recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – baked beans with bacon. This classic comfort food dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

The story of baked beans is a fascinating one, dating back to the 17th century when British sailors would cook beans in salted pork or bacon to preserve them for long voyages. Over time, the recipe spread throughout the colonies and evolved into the sweet and smoky dish we know today.

One of the best things about baked beans is their versatility – they can be served as a side dish, used as a topping for hot dogs or burgers, or even served as a main course on its own. I love how easy it is to make, just throw all the ingredients in a pot and let it simmer away.

My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, measuring out the ingredients and stirring the pot. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while creating a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to get some protein and fiber into your diet – perfect for busy families on-the-go like mine! My husband swears by this recipe every time we have a family gathering or BBQ – it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – canned beans are low in calories but high in nutrients like potassium and folate.

Baked Beans with Bacon

Baked Beans with Bacon

4.8 from 1965 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring baked beans slow-cooked with bacon. This recipe combines the smoky richness of bacon with the comforting flavors of baked beans.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb dried navy beans
6 slices bacon
1 large onion
2 cloves garlic
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp molasses
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dry mustard

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2Soak the dried navy beans in water overnight or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.
3In a Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy and the fat has rendered.
4Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
5Add the chopped onion to the Dutch oven and cook in the bacon fat over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
6Add the minced garlic to the onion and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
7Drain and rinse the soaked beans and add them to the pot.
8Pour in the chicken broth, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard.
9Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
10Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
11Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the Dutch oven, and place it in the preheated oven.
12Let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
13Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and stir in the cooked bacon, crumbling it into small pieces as you add it.
14Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
15Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Dutch oven
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tip: You can use canned beans if you are short on time, but soaked dried beans will have a better texture.

Baked beans with bacon is a dish that never disappoints. Its rich, comforting flavors make it a favorite for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to large family gatherings. This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare in advance and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.

Enjoying this dish with loved ones creates lasting memories and brings everyone together. Whether you’re feeding a small family or a large crowd, baked beans with bacon is sure to be a hit. The combination of tender beans, savory bacon, and a rich tomato-based sauce is simply irresistible. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your table.

Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s a dish that will be loved by all. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish.

You can also freeze baked beans with bacon for up to 3 months. This makes it a great option for meal prepping and having a delicious meal ready when you need it. Serve it with cornbread or a side salad to make a complete meal. It’s a dish that will be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Beans with Bacon

Q: What type of bacon should I use?

A: I prefer using thick-cut bacon for this recipe because it adds more flavor and texture to the dish. You can also use regular-cut bacon if that’s what you have on hand, but keep in mind it might not hold up as well during cooking.

Q: Can I use other types of beans instead of navy beans?

A: While navy beans are traditional, you can experiment with other types like kidney beans or black beans if you prefer their flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?

A: No soaking is required for this recipe since we’re using canned beans that are already pre-cooked.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: Yes! Simply brown the bacon and onions in a pan before transferring everything to your slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low heat.

Q: How do I store leftover baked beans?

A: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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