Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
Cook chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy (6-8 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving some grease in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onion
Add chopped onion to the bacon grease and sauté over medium heat until softened (5 minutes).
3. Mix the Sauce
Add ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, molasses, vinegar, mustard, paprika, and pepper. Stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Add the Beans
Add beans and stir to coat. Add water or broth if needed.
5. Simmer the Beans
Simmer uncovered over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Bacon
Stir in cooked bacon. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
7. Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar. Add more brown sugar or molasses if desired.
8. Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot!
Cooking Notes
- Beans: Soak dried beans overnight. Drain and rinse canned beans.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor. Turkey bacon is a leaner option.
- Sauce: Ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and molasses create a rich sauce. Add hot sauce or chili powder for spice, or liquid smoke for smokiness.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours after cooking bacon and sautéing onion.
- Make-Ahead: Make a day in advance; flavors improve overnight. Refrigerate and reheat on the stovetop.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit bacon; use vegetarian bacon or smoked paprika. Add vegetables.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
- Maple: Replace molasses with maple syrup.
- BBQ: Add more barbecue sauce; add pulled pork or chicken.
- Southern-Style: Add yellow mustard or pickle relish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Beans: Use black soybeans or green beans.
- Sugar Substitute: Use erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit.
- BBQ Sauce: Use sugar-free barbecue sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead? Yes! Flavors improve overnight.
Can I use canned beans? Yes, drain and rinse well.
How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Can I use turkey bacon? Yes, it’s a leaner option.
These Southern Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon are a guaranteed hit! Enjoy!
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