baked beans with bacon recipe
The Best baked beans with bacon recipe
The health perks aren’t bad either. Beans are packed with fiber, which helps keep things moving smoothly, and the lean protein from the bacon keeps you full longer. Plus, it’s easy to swap in low-sodium beans or use less processed bacon if you’re watching your intake. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to customize—maybe add a little hot sauce for heat or a sprinkle of cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that’s so simple, you’ll forget you even cooked it’s so easy to make.
Classic Baked Beans with Crispy Bacon
A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender baked beans simmered with rich tomato sauce and smoky bacon. Perfect for a cozy meal or a crowd-pleasing side.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pot. -
2
Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in the bacon fat until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the diced onion and cook for another 2 minutes. -
3
Stir in the drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and mustard powder. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. -
4
Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated 375°F oven. Bake for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce thickens slightly. -
5
Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the crispy bacon. If desired, drizzle with maple syrup or brown sugar for extra sweetness. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Baked Beans with Crispy Bacon Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Beans with Crispy Bacon
How do I adjust the spice level in this baked beans recipe?
Use a mild brown sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup to soften the heat from the chili powder. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder by half or skip it entirely. If you prefer extra smokiness, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a small piece of bacon (like a single slice) to the pot before cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, baked beans with bacon taste even better the next day. Cook the beans and bacon as directed, then let them cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
What if I don’t have dried beans?
Use 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans or pinto beans instead of dried. Rinse the canned beans well to remove excess salt, then proceed with the recipe as written. Canned beans cook faster, so reduce the simmering time by about 20 minutes.
How can I make sure the bacon doesn’t get soggy?
To keep the bacon crispy, cook it in a separate pan first until fully rendered and crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then add it to the beans in the last 5 minutes of cooking. This ensures it stays flavorful without becoming mushy.
What’s the best way to serve these baked beans?
These beans pair well with crusty bread, a side of steamed greens, or even a simple grilled chicken breast. For a heartier meal, top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. If you like extra crunch, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
