Delight in the rich flavors of this Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans recipe, featuring hearty pork n’ beans, sweet brown sugar, tangy barbecue sauce, and crispy bacon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Tradition: This dish captures the essence of family gatherings and heartwarming memories.
- Sweet and Savory: The blend of brown sugar and bacon creates a rich, complex taste that enhances the earthy beans.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side at barbecues, a comforting winter meal, or a festive potluck addition.
Ingredient Notes
Each ingredient plays a key role:
- Plain Pork n’ Beans: The hearty base that absorbs all the flavors.
- Ketchup and Barbecue Sauce: Provide the tangy backbone of the dish.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness that balances the tanginess.
- Yellow Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce: Introduce zesty depth.
- Liquid Smoke: Optional but adds a smoky flavor reminiscent of outdoor cooking.
- Garlic Powder and Pepper: Enhance the overall taste with subtle warmth.
- Bacon: The crispy topping that brings it all together.
How To Make Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans
Follow these steps for perfect baked beans:
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Liquid Smoke (if using), garlic powder, and pepper in a medium bowl.
- Prepare the Beans: Drain excess liquid from the canned pork n’ beans. This prevents the dish from becoming watery. Gently fold the beans into the sauce mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the bean mixture into a shallow 2-quart baking dish, spreading the beans evenly.
- Add the Bacon: Cut bacon into half-inch pieces and distribute evenly over the bean mixture. Crumple slightly for even cooking.
- Bake: Place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the bacon is crisp and the beans are bubbling.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They reheat beautifully on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
Customize this recipe to suit your tastes:
- Smokier Flavor: Increase Liquid Smoke or add smoked paprika for depth.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Omit bacon or replace it with a vegetarian alternative for crunch.
- Sugar Adjustments: Reduce brown sugar or use honey for a different sweetness.
- Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat that contrasts nicely with sweetness.
These modifications allow you to tailor the dish to your palate while preserving its comforting essence. Enjoy the nostalgia and flavor of these baked beans!