Southern Baked Beans with Bacon
A cozy side dish that combines sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors, perfect for cookouts and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 to 8 slices slices bacon, chopped Cook until crisp
- 1 small onion, diced Sauté in bacon fat
- 3 cans beans (pork and beans, navy, or a mix, about 15 ounces each) Drain lightly if desired
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Use your favorite
- 2 to 4 tablespoons brown sugar Start with 2 tablespoons
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon ketchup Optional but tasty
- 1 to 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar Or a splash of pickle juice
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat oven to 350 F (175 C).
- In a skillet, cook bacon until it is crisp on the edges. Scoop bacon out and leave about 1 tablespoon of the fat in the pan.
- Sauté the onion in the bacon fat for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.
Assembly
- In a baking dish, stir together beans, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, mustard, ketchup, vinegar, onion, and most of the bacon. Save a little bacon for the top.
- Taste the sauce. Adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.
Baking
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes, until bubbly and thick. Stir once halfway through.
- Top with the remaining bacon and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make ahead for best flavor. Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently.