Side Dish

Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans Recipe

Name: Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; ½ cup tomato ketchup; 1 tablespoon smooth yellow mustard; 2 tablespoons molasses; ⅓ cup packed dark brown sugar; 6 strips thick-cut bacon; 1 small sweet onion, finely minced

Kathleen Looney August 9, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the heart of the recipe, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside these delightful brown sugar and bacon baked beans. The sweet and savory combination of flavors in this dish makes it a versatile addition to a variety of meals. Here are some pairings that complement the dish beautifully:

Grilled Meats: Think of BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, or grilled chicken. The sweetness of the beans balances nicely with the smoky, savory notes of grilled meats.
Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is perfect for scooping up those beans. The slight sweetness and crumbly texture pair wonderfully with this dish.
Coleslaw: The crisp, refreshing crunch of coleslaw contrasts with the gooey, savory baked beans. Plus, it adds a vibrant color to the plate.
Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can round out your meal nicely. The different textures and flavors will create a satisfying plate that everyone will enjoy.

Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of brown sugar and bacon. I remember the first time I stumbled upon brown sugar and bacon baked beans at a potluck; it was love at first bite. The sweet notes from the brown sugar meld perfectly with the salty, smoky crunch of bacon. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a conversation starter, a comfort food, and a staple at gatherings.

When I serve this dish, I notice smiles all around. Everyone grabs a spoon, and suddenly there’s a competition to see who can get the last scoop. When you want to impress guests, this recipe is a surefire hit.

What Are Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans?

Brown sugar and bacon baked beans take your classic bean dish and elevate it with two key ingredients—brown sugar and bacon. The beans become a sweet and savory delight, transforming the humble bean into something truly spectacular. Pulling together elements of sweetness and a hint of smokiness, this dish turns heads and highlights the beauty of simplicity in preparation.

You’ll love how easily it comes together. Using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for any gathering—whether a summer BBQ or a winter potluck.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a standout among baked bean dishes for several reasons:

Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of brown sugar and bacon creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. The sweetness of the brown sugar balances the saltiness of the bacon, creating an irresistible contrast.
Easy Preparation: You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make this dish. With a few straightforward steps, you can prepare it in no time. You’ll wonder why you didn’t start making it sooner!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s at a family gathering or a backyard barbecue, this dish always garners compliments. Even the pickiest eaters at the table are likely to go back for seconds.
Versatile Ingredient Substitutions: If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, no worries. This recipe allows for easy swaps, making it adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Now that you’re excited about making this dish, let’s gather the ingredients:

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy touch.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This contributes a smoky depth beyond the bacon.
2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient deepens the umami flavor.
½ cup tomato ketchup: Adds a classic element that binds the flavors.
1 tablespoon smooth yellow mustard: For a hint of zest.
2 tablespoons molasses: Offers an old-fashioned sweetness.
2 cans (28 oz each) pork and beans in rich tomato sauce: The heart of the dish.
⅓ cup packed dark brown sugar: Sweetness squared.
6 strips thick-cut bacon, roughly chopped: The star ingredient.
1 small sweet onion, finely minced: For additional flavor.

I once made this dish using leftover bacon from breakfast. Talk about maximizing ingredients!

How To Make These?

Now, let’s dive into the preparation. Here’s how to create a batch of delicious brown sugar and bacon baked beans.

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an oven-safe pot or a large skillet. Cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This will take around 5-7 minutes. You want those sizzling sounds! Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan, leaving a bit of the bacon grease for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pot, add the minced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the pressed garlic and sauté for another minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating the perfect base for our beans.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In the same pot, stir in the pork and beans, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, molasses, smoked paprika, and dark brown sugar. Mix everything together until well combined. Leave no unblemished bean behind!

Step 4: Add the Bacon

Fold the crispy bacon into the bean mixture. Let that salty goodness permeate the beans. Give it a final stir to distribute the bacon evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After thirty minutes, remove the cover and let it bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and bubble up. The smell? Absolutely heavenly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

When the beans are bubbling and the edges are slightly caramelized, take them out of the oven. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

How to make Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans Recipe

Tips for Perfect Baked Beans

Use Thick-Cut Bacon: For richer flavor and texture, thick-cut bacon is ideal. It adds that extra punch you want in this dish.
Consider Overnight Soaking: If you want to experiment, try soaking the beans overnight. It may add a deeper flavor and a different texture.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the mixture before baking. If you prefer it sweeter, don’t hesitate to add more brown sugar or molasses.
Add Some Heat: If you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick to the flavor.
Cook in Smaller Batches: If you’re trying this for the first time, consider halving the recipe. This way, you won’t have an overwhelming amount of leftovers.

Nutrition Information

For those watching their dietary intake, here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition value per serving (based on 8 servings):

These values may change based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store The Leftovers?

If by chance you have leftovers (I often wish I did!), let the beans cool to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to rehydrate the sauce if needed.

Recommended Side Dishes for Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Looking for sides? Here are some perfect suggestions to round out your meal:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, especially when grilled, complements the beans beautifully. The sweet flavor of the corn pairs perfectly with the savory beans.
BBQ Chicken Wings: Juicy wings tossed in your favorite sauce can elevate your gathering. Their crunch and bold flavors go hand-in-hand with baked beans.
Classic Potato Chips: Sometimes, simple is best. Crunchy chips offer a great texture contrast. The saltiness and crunchiness are so satisfying!
Garden Salad: A fresh salad with vine-ripened tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing bite to the meal. It lightens the plate.

Ingredient Substitution Options

Not stocked on all the ingredients? No problem! Here are some easy swaps:

Bacon: Try turkey bacon or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Both will provide a unique flavor profile.
Pork and Beans: If you can’t find them, use cannellini or navy beans; just ensure you add a bit of tomato sauce for moisture.
Dark Brown Sugar: If you only have light brown sugar, that’s fine! It’s sweeter but will still deliver on flavor. You can even try honey or maple syrup in a pinch.
Apple Cider Vinegar: White vinegar or lemon juice will do the trick, although they will lend a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Brown sugar and bacon baked beans are perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is straightforward yet indulgent. With easy preparation and hearty flavors, this dish is one you should definitely keep in your cooking repertoire.

As you enjoy these baked beans, remember the laughter and chatter that accompany meals shared with friends and family. This dish might just steal the show, but it’s the memories crafted around it that remain in our hearts. So fire up your oven and give this recipe a shot. You won’t be disappointed!

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Print Recipe

Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans Recipe

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Side Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 213

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

There’s something magical about the combination of brown sugar and bacon. I remember the first time I stumbled upon brown sugar and bacon baked beans at a potluck; it was love at first bite. The sweet notes from the brown sugar meld perfectly with the salty, smoky crunch of bacon. It’s not just a side dish; it's a conversation starter, a comfort food, and a staple at gatherings.

When I serve this dish, I notice smiles all around. Everyone grabs a spoon, and suddenly there's a competition to see who can get the last scoop. When you want to impress guests, this recipe is a surefire hit.