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Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

These Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky. Featuring thick-cut bacon, caramelized onions, and a rich molasses-infused sauce, this side dish bakes up thick and bubbly with an irresistible crust. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners.
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Ingredients
  

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cans 28 oz each pork and beans (or neutral baked beans), undrained
  • 3/4 cup dark brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Crisp Bacon: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the pan.
  • Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion to the reserved bacon fat and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Make Sauce: Stir in the dark brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and mustard. Cook for 2 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture gently bubbles.
  • Combine: Pour the undrained beans and the cooked bacon into the skillet. Stir gently to combine thoroughly.
  • Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the sauce is thick, bubbly, and caramelized on top. Let the beans stand for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can fully set.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke or use a hickory-smoked bacon.
  • If using a slow cooker, follow steps 1-4, combine everything in the slow cooker, and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours.