Delicious homemade baked beans with bacon served in a bowl

Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern)

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This recipe combines savory bacon, hearty beans, and a delicious blend of sauces that create a sweet and tangy flavor. Making your own baked beans allows you to control the ingredients and customize the taste to your liking. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, family gatherings, or cozy dinners at home.

How to Make Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 150g/5 oz bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 1/2 tsp garlic paste)
  • 3 x 400g/14 oz cans red kidney beans (or other beans), drained and rinsed (Note 1)
  • 3/4 cup ketchup (Note 2)
  • 3/4 cup tomato passata / US tomato puree (Note 3)
  • 1/4 cup molasses (Note 4)
  • 2 tbsp cider vinegar
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 tsp mustard powder (or 1 tbsp Dijon or American mustard)
  • 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 tsp EACH salt & pepper (plus more to taste)

Directions:

  1. Heat oil over high heat. You can skip the oil if the bacon is very fatty.
  2. Add the chopped bacon and cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until the onion and bacon are golden.
  4. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot. Stir everything well and bring it to a simmer.
  5. Cover with a lid. You can either:
    • Turn down the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently on the stove for 1 hour. Make sure to stir occasionally so the bottom does not catch.
    • Or bake it in the oven at 160°C/325°F for 60 minutes.
  6. For a slow cooker option, reduce water to 1/4 cup, transfer everything to a slow cooker, and cook on low for 6 hours.
  7. The sauce should thicken and become glossy. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon

Serve your homemade baked beans hot, alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or coleslaw. They make a great addition to any barbecue or picnic spread. You can also enjoy them as a hearty meal on their own.

How to Store Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon

To store leftovers, let the beans cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the beans, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for about 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon

  • Use a good-quality bacon for the best flavor.
  • Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less molasses, depending on your taste preference.
  • If you like extra spice, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
  • Stir the beans occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding bell peppers or celery for extra veggies. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and add smoked paprika for a similar flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Just soak them overnight and cook until tender before mixing them into the recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baked beans a day in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with baked beans?
Baked beans go well with grilled meats, hot dogs, hamburgers, cornbread, or even salads for a complete meal.