Smoky Beans Recipe 🍲

Overview:

If you’re in search of a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for feeding a hungry crowd at gatherings or potlucks, then look no further than these mouthwatering Smoky Beans! Adapted from the pages of one of the earliest Taste of Home magazines, this recipe has stood the test of time and continues to impress with its hearty flavors and easy preparation. With a smoky, savory profile and a touch of sweetness, these beans are sure to become a staple at your gatherings. Plus, they’re a breeze to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to delight your taste buds!

Ingredients:

1 pound bacon
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups brown sugar
1 cup catsup
1 cup white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Then, in a frying pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp and nicely browned. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, making sure to reserve about one tablespoon of the drippings in the pan.
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Saute the Onion: In the same frying pan with the reserved bacon drippings, sauté the chopped onion until it’s tender and translucent, releasing its aromatic flavors and adding depth to the dish.
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed kidney beans and butter beans. Crumble the cooked bacon into the bowl with the beans, along with the sautéed onions, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, catsup, white vinegar, garlic powder, and dry mustard until the ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth. This rich and tangy sauce will infuse the beans with layers of delicious flavor.
Combine and Bake: Pour the sauce over the bean mixture, ensuring that all the ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed. Stir gently to incorporate the sauce throughout the beans. Then, transfer the bean mixture to a large baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the Smoky Beans, uncovered, for approximately 50 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and the sauce is bubbling and caramelized on the edges, creating irresistible flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen with warmth.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the Smoky Beans from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with your favorite barbecue fare or as a standalone side dish. Serve it up hot and watch as your guests dig in with delight, savoring each smoky, savory bite.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 245.6
Fat: 11.4g
Saturated Fat: 3.8g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 672.6mg
Carbohydrates: 28.6g
Fiber: 4.7g
Sugar: 13.7g
Protein: 9.1g

Serving Size and Yield:

This recipe yields approximately 30 servings, making it ideal for large gatherings, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead. Each serving is packed with flavor and satisfaction, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves feeling satisfied and impressed by your culinary prowess.

Tips and Variations:

For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite beans or adjusting the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for a quick and convenient meal option.
Serve these Smoky Beans alongside grilled meats, barbecue chicken, or your favorite picnic fare for a complete and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

With its hearty combination of beans, savory bacon, and flavorful sauce, these Smoky Beans are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends and family or simply craving a comforting side dish, this recipe delivers on taste, simplicity, and crowd-pleasing appeal. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!