Smoky Sweet Saucy Baked Beans

Saucy Baked Beans 🍲

Description

I got this delightful recipe out of a magazine years ago, and it quickly became a favorite in my household due to its fantastic flavor and ease of preparation. These beans are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an excellent side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners. For those looking to reduce the fat content, you can substitute liquid smoke for the bacon, giving the beans that smoky flavor without the added fat. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Preparation and Cooking Times

Ingredients

• 3 cups onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup green pepper, diced
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups pork and beans
• 3 slices bacon, cut into pieces

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 217.8
• Fat: 5.3g
• Saturated Fat: 1.9g
• Cholesterol: 14.6mg
• Sodium: 748.8mg
• Carbohydrates: 37.7g
• Fiber: 8.2g
• Sugar: 7.8g
• Protein: 8.5g

Servings

This recipe serves 10 people.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures a slow, even bake that allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly.

2. Prepare Your Casserole Dish: In a 2-quart casserole dish, combine the pork and beans, onion, green pepper, brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly so that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

   • Tip: Use a large spoon or spatula to mix the ingredients well, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar to ensure it dissolves evenly throughout the beans.

3. Add the Bacon: Once your mixture is well combined, lay the bacon pieces on top. This will allow the bacon to crisp up nicely while baking and add a wonderful smoky flavor to the beans.

   • Tip: If you’re opting for a lower-fat version, substitute the bacon with a few drops of liquid smoke to achieve that delicious smoky taste without the extra fat.

4. Bake the Beans: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 1/2 hours. Baking uncovered will allow the sauce to thicken and the bacon to crisp up beautifully.

   • Tip: Check the beans occasionally to ensure they are not drying out. If they appear too dry, you can cover them with foil for the last 30 minutes of baking.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the beans are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These saucy baked beans are best enjoyed warm and can be paired with a variety of main dishes like grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on their own as a hearty snack.

Serving Suggestions

These saucy baked beans are incredibly versatile and can complement many meals. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Barbecue Delight: Serve these beans alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers for a classic barbecue feast. The sweet and tangy flavors of the beans pair perfectly with smoky, savory meats.

• Potluck Favorite: Bring a big dish of these beans to your next potluck or picnic. They travel well and can be kept warm in a slow cooker if needed.

• Comfort Food Heaven: Pair these beans with cornbread and a simple green salad for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Version: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. You can also add a few drops of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.

• Spicy Twist: For those who love a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture before baking.

• Sweeter Beans: If you prefer your baked beans on the sweeter side, increase the amount of brown sugar to 1 1/2 cups.

• Smoky Beans: If you love that deep smoky flavor, don’t hesitate to add more liquid smoke or use smoked paprika in the mixture.

• Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, you can simmer the mixture on the stovetop for about 15 minutes before baking. This will reduce some of the liquid and intensify the flavors.

Storage and Reheating

These beans store wonderfully and their flavors often improve after a day or two. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: These beans also freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the beans in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a covered saucepan over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until hot.

Final Thoughts

These saucy baked beans are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. They’re easy to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough to fit into various menus. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a festive gathering, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and hearty dish that’s been cherished for years. Happy cooking! 🥳🍴✨