Description
Looking for the perfect side dish for your next BBQ or summer cookout? These Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans bring savory and sweet flavors together for a deliciously smoky dish that’s guaranteed to please a crowd. Forget the canned baked beans filled with preservatives—this homemade recipe is simple to make, full of rich flavors, and ready in under an hour!
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves classic cookout dishes but wants a homemade touch. Perfect for family gatherings, summer parties, potlucks, or anyone seeking a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish to complement grilled meats or veggie burgers.
Why It’s Great
- Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and one pan, this dish is simple yet delicious.
- Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of brown sugar paired with the smoky taste of bacon creates an unforgettable flavor combo.
- Customizable: Swap out regular baked beans for a low-sugar or vegetarian option, or substitute the bourbon with your favorite whiskey for extra depth.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger events.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 1 can (28 oz) baked beans (such as Bush’s) – drain half the liquid
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup mustard
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamarind for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup bourbon (more to taste)
- 3 slices bacon
How To Make Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine baked beans, ketchup, mustard, garlic, brown sugar, onion, soy sauce, and bourbon. Stir thoroughly to blend flavors.
- Add Bacon: Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces and arrange them evenly over the top of the beans.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the beans are hot and bubbly.
- Rest: Let the beans sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 12-inch cast-iron skillet or 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon for mixing
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet or microwave.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or skip it altogether and add a touch of smoked paprika to capture that smoky flavor.
What can I use instead of bourbon?
If you prefer an alcohol-free version, you can replace the bourbon with apple cider vinegar or a splash of apple juice for a hint of sweetness.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be made a day ahead. After baking, allow the beans to cool completely, then store them in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are a fantastic addition to any cookout or family dinner. With the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory, they’re sure to be a hit. Easy to make and adaptable to dietary needs, this homemade recipe beats canned beans any day. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
