Southern-Style Baked Beans are a rich, smoky, and sweet side dish that perfectly complements any barbecue or picnic spread. Packed with hearty beans, smoky bacon, and a tangy-sweet sauce made from brown sugar, mustard, and a touch of molasses, this dish brings bold flavors to the table. Slow-baked for deep caramelization, these beans are a Southern classic that combines simplicity with irresistible taste. Whether served at a family gathering or a casual dinner, this comforting dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked navy beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Bacon and Onion: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, mix the cooked beans, cooked onion, crispy bacon, and sauce until well combined.
- Bake the Beans: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce is thickened and bubbling.
- Serve: Remove the beans from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra bacon bits if desired.
Southern-Style Baked Beans are a hearty, flavorful addition to any meal, delivering a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Serve them hot alongside grilled meats or cornbread for a true taste of the South!
