Southern-style baked beans with bacon are a savory, hearty dish that brings warmth to any table. This easy recipe features rich flavors and a crispy bacon topping, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying!
Table of Contents
The Best Southern-Style Baked Beans with Bacon
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines pantry staples like canned pork and beans with a delicious homemade sauce. The bacon adds a savory crunch, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal effort, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor
For the best southern-style baked beans, gather these ingredients:
- 2 28-oz. cans plain pork and beans
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- A few drops liquid smoke (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 5-6 slices thick center-cut bacon
How to Make Southern-Style Baked Beans
Preparing the Sauce Mixture
Start by combining ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, optional liquid smoke, garlic powder, and pepper in a mixing bowl. This sweet and tangy sauce will infuse the beans with incredible flavor.
Getting the Beans Ready
Open the cans of pork and beans, draining the standing liquid carefully. Discard this liquid to avoid over-seasoning. Add the beans to the sauce mixture and stir gently to combine, allowing the beans to soak up those delicious flavors.
Assembling and Baking
Transfer the mixture to a shallow 2-quart baking dish. Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch pieces and distribute it evenly over the beans. This will create a crunchy topping that perfectly complements the soft, tender beans. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the bacon is cooked through and starts to crisp up.
Tips for Perfect Southern Baked Beans
Choosing the Right Beans
Using plain pork and beans is crucial for this recipe. Avoid pre-flavored baked or barbecue beans, as they may lead to an overly seasoned dish. This way, you can control the flavor perfectly!
Bacon Preparation and Distribution
For the best texture, use thick center-cut bacon. If this isn’t available, you can opt for thick-cut bacon and trim the fatty ends. Crumpling the bacon pieces slightly before baking can also enhance the presentation.
Baking Tips for Crispy Bacon
To ensure that the bacon doesn’t shrink too much, choose high-quality bacon and avoid overcooking it. Keeping an eye on the beans while they bake will help you achieve that perfect crispy layer on top.
Serving Southern-Style Baked Beans
Delicious Side Dish Pairings
These baked beans make an excellent side dish for various meals. They pair wonderfully with southern mac and cheese, creamy cucumber salad, or even a refreshing potato salad. The combination of flavors will elevate your dining experience.
The “Cowboy Beans” Variation
If you’re looking for a heartier option, try the “Cowboy Beans” variation. This recipe includes ground beef and sausage, adding another layer of flavor and protein. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd!
FAQs
Where can I find the recipe?
The recipe for southern-style baked beans with bacon is provided above. You can follow the instructions step by step to create this delicious dish.
What kind of bacon should I use?
Use thick center-cut bacon for the best results. If unavailable, thick-cut bacon can also work well, but be sure to trim any excess fat.
How long do I bake the beans?
Bake the beans uncovered at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours, until the bacon is fully cooked and crispy.
Can I use different beans?
While this recipe calls for plain pork and beans, you can experiment with other bean varieties. However, ensure they’re plain to avoid over-seasoning.
How do I ensure the bacon doesn’t shrink too much?
Choose high-quality bacon and avoid overcooking it. Keeping an eye on the beans while they bake helps achieve the perfect crispy layer.
Related Recipes to Try
- Egg Roll In A Bowl
- Egg Roll Bowl 2
- Turkey Egg Roll Bowl
- Ground Turkey Egg Roll
- Spring Roll Salad
- Vegetable Spring Rolls
Conclusion
Southern-style baked beans with bacon are a beloved dish that provides comfort and flavor in every bite. For more cooking inspiration, feel free to explore our Pinterest page. Here, you’ll find a variety of recipes to suit every taste and occasion. Enjoy these baked beans at your next gathering, and watch as they become an instant favorite!
Southern-Style Baked Beans with Bacon: A Comforting Delight
Equipment
- Shallow 2-quart baking dish
Ingredients
- 2 28-oz. cans plain pork and beans
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- A few drops liquid smoke (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 5-6 slices thick center-cut bacon
Instructions
- Combine ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke (if using), garlic powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Open the cans of pork and beans, drain the standing liquid, and discard it.
- Add the drained beans to the sauce mixture and stir gently to combine everything.
- Transfer the bean and sauce mixture into a shallow 2-quart baking dish.
- Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch pieces and distribute them evenly over the top of the beans.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the bacon is cooked through and beginning to crisp.
Notes
- Use plain pork and beans rather than pre-flavored baked or barbecue beans to avoid over-seasoning. Keep cans upright before opening to allow liquid to settle for easier draining. If thick center-cut bacon is unavailable, use thick-cut bacon and trim fatty ends. Crumpling bacon pieces slightly before baking is optional for presentation.