Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Rich, savory, and kissed with sweetness—Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food that elevates any meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, cooking up a cozy dinner, or preparing a dish for a potluck, this recipe brings bold, nostalgic flavor with a modern touch. The combination of tender beans, smoky bacon, and brown sugar creates a deeply satisfying balance of sweet and salty that’s hard to resist.

As the beans bake, they absorb all the delicious caramelized goodness from the brown sugar and the irresistible umami from crispy bacon bits. A hint of mustard and a splash of tangy vinegar tie it all together, giving these baked beans a gourmet twist while keeping the preparation simple. This dish is a favorite sidekick for grilled meats, but it can also easily steal the show on its own.

---

Ingredients for Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

• 4 cups canned navy beans (or 2 cups dry beans soaked and cooked)
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

---

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Onion

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s golden and crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pan.

Next, add the diced onion to the same pan and sauté in the bacon fat until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. This step adds depth and savory richness to your baked beans.

---

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. This sweet and tangy blend is what makes the beans irresistibly flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

---

Step 3: Assemble the Baked Beans

In a large oven-safe baking dish or Dutch oven, combine the cooked beans, sautéed onion, and about two-thirds of the crispy bacon. Pour the sauce mixture over the top and gently stir everything together until the beans are evenly coated.

---

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining bacon on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the top will slightly caramelize for that perfect finish.

---

Step 5: Serve Warm

Let the baked beans cool slightly before serving so the sauce can thicken a bit more. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy on their own with crusty bread or cornbread.

---

Storage Instructions

To keep your Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. The flavors get even better as they sit!
• Freezer: These beans freeze beautifully. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. For best results from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~290
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sodium: 540mg

Note: Values may vary depending on the exact brands and portions used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of beans are best for this recipe?

Navy beans are traditionally used because of their small size and creamy texture, but you can also use great northern or cannellini beans.

Can I use canned baked beans instead of plain beans?

You can, but they may already contain sugar and sauce, which could make the dish overly sweet. Adjust the brown sugar accordingly.

Is it okay to skip the bacon for a vegetarian version?

Yes! Swap bacon for smoked paprika, a pinch of liquid smoke, or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version that still packs a savory punch.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Cook the bacon and onions first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beans a day ahead and reheat them before serving. The flavor deepens overnight.

What can I serve with these baked beans?

They’re perfect with grilled meats, pulled pork, cornbread, coleslaw, or even as a hearty toast topper.

How do I thicken the baked beans if they’re too runny?

Bake them uncovered for a longer time or stir in a spoonful of tomato paste or cornstarch slurry.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just use a larger baking dish and increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.

---

Print