Best Ever Southern-Style Baked Beans

At potlucks, cookouts, picnics, barbecues, and the like, we’re all used to seeing the familiar dish of baked beans. And why not? They’re good. They’re dependable. They’re soft and tender, sweet and savory, hearty and filling. They’re a side dish mainstay that everyone spoons on their plate without thinking much about it. But if you’re the one bringing the beans next time, don’t you want to bring beans that people will think about? Don’t you want to bring the best baked beans ever? Well, good news, you guys. These beans here answer that call. These beans are ahhh-maz-ing. These beans are the complete package. These beans are the. best. ever. They’re cooked low and slow in a sauce that is sweet and tangy and layered with flavor, and as it cooks that sauce becomes caramelized and surrounds those soft and tender beans in a blanket of nuanced flavor. There’s also bacon involved. But not sad, soggy, chewy bacon. The bacon is partially cooked beforehand and then arranged on top of the dish before baking, so as it cooks it becomes perfectly crispy. When the beans come out of the oven and you’re ready to serve, that bacon crumbles easily against your spoon and imparts a smoky, crunchy bite to each mouthful. Bean and bacon perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern-style baked beans recipe is an absolute game-changer. It takes the humble baked bean and elevates it into something truly extraordinary. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, coupled with crispy bacon, makes every bite a delight. It’s the perfect side dish for any gathering, whether it’s a casual barbecue or a family dinner.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Large pot (optional, if needed)
• Wooden spoon
• Paper towels

Ingredients

• 3 large cans (28 oz each) pork and beans
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 8 slices bacon, halved
• 3/4 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, fry the bacon over medium heat until it is partially cooked. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
3. Add the chopped onions to the bacon drippings in the skillet and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the pork and beans, ketchup, molasses, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar to the skillet. Bring to a simmer. If the skillet isn’t large enough, use a separate pot to bring these ingredients to a simmer.
5. Season the mixture to taste with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper.
6. Pour the bean mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Top the beans with the slices of partially cooked bacon.
8. Place the dish in the oven on the middle rack and bake until the top is dark and caramelized and the sauce is thick and syrupy, about 2-3 hours.
9. Let the baked beans stand for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• For best results, use quality bacon to ensure a crispy topping.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the bean mixture.
• Be patient and let the beans bake for the full time recommended to achieve the perfect caramelization.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of beans if you prefer a variety or need a vegetarian option. You can also add a touch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these baked beans ahead of time?

Yes, these beans can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. In fact, they often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! While pork and beans are traditional, feel free to use other beans like navy beans or pinto beans if you prefer.

Conclusion

These Best Ever Southern-Style Baked Beans are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With their rich, caramelized sauce and crispy bacon topping, they offer a delicious twist on a classic dish. Give this recipe a try and let us know how much you love it by sharing your thoughts and pictures. We can’t wait to hear about your baked bean success!