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, reserving some bacon grease.
2. Sauté the Onion
Sauté finely chopped onion in the remaining bacon grease until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Mix the Sauce
Add ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and pepper to the pot. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the Beans
Add beans, stirring to coat. Add water or broth if needed for desired consistency.
5. Simmer the Beans
Simmer uncovered over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
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, and serve hot.
Cooking Notes
- Beans: Soak dried beans overnight and cook according to package instructions. Drain and rinse canned beans.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor, or turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Sauce: The combination of ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and molasses creates a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce. Add hot sauce or chili powder for spice, or liquid smoke for more smokiness.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours after cooking bacon and sautéing onion.
- Make-Ahead: Beans taste even better the next day! Refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit bacon, use vegetarian bacon, or add smoked paprika. Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
- Maple: Replace molasses with maple syrup.
- BBQ: Add more barbecue sauce, or pulled pork/chicken.
- Southern-Style: Add yellow mustard or pickle relish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Beans: Use low-carb beans like black soybeans or green beans.
- Sugar Substitute: Use erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
- BBQ Sauce: Use sugar-free barbecue sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead? Yes! Flavors improve the next day.
Can I use canned beans? Absolutely! 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, but the flavor will be less rich.
These Southern Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon are a guaranteed hit! Enjoy!
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