Main CourseReader rated
Hearty Baked Beans with Bacon
This comforting dish combines smoky bacon with tender baked beans for a satisfying meal that's perfect any time of year. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
◷4 hr 30 minTotal Time
♜4Servings
▥HardDifficulty
Ingredients
4servings
Instructions
1
Crisp and Crumble Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning it every now and then until it’s nice and crispy, about 10 to 12 minutes. Once it’s done, transfer the bacon to some paper towels to drain, but keep the bacon grease in the skillet. When the bacon has cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces.
2
Saut Onions and Garlic
Next, add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and cook over medium heat until the onion softens, which should take around 5 minutes. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute until you can really smell it. Then, transfer this onion and garlic mixture, along with all that flavorful bacon grease, into your slow cooker.
3
Brown the Ground Beef
Using the same skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once browned, add the beef to the slow cooker.
4
Add beans and sauce
Now, pour in the pork and beans, kidney beans, butter beans, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of liquid smoke. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5
Slow Cook and Serve
Cover and let it cook on low for about 4 hours. When it’s ready, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top before serving. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is comforting and full of rich, smoky flavors. The combination of tender beans and crispy bacon makes it both hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm alongside crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs well with grilled sausages or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the beans seem dry. This dish also freezes well for up to three months.
