This easy Homemade Baked Beans recipe begins with pork and beans to keep things simple, with sweet and savory ingredients like ketchup, mustard, and molasses for layers of flavor. Salty bacon adds the final touch.
Baked beans are one of my go-to side dishes for every summer BBQ and picnic. There are a few different variations I make, like root beer baked beans and Dr Pepper baked beans. But they are all inspired by this classic baked beans with bacon recipe I’m sharing today. Simple, easy, and the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
I know some people like to begin their homemade baked beans with dried beans or at least plain canned beans but I actually prefer to start with pork and beans. It gives you a head start on flavor while still being easy to customize with other sweet, savory ingredients. Plus, it keeps the prep quick and easy too!
Why I Love These Baked Beans
- Sweet & savory. These homemade baked beans offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, with ingredients like ketchup and mustard, molasses, and brown sugar. A bit of smoked paprika adds a little smoky heat, too.
- Hands-off recipe. While it takes up to two hours to finish the beans, the hands-on time for this recipe is just a few minutes. Once the onion is sauteed, everything is transferred to a baking dish and popped in the oven. From there, the oven does the rest. So easy!
- Cookout ready. Baked beans make a great side dish for any cookout or BBQ. This recipe is no exception, and with 75 ounces of beans, it makes plenty for sharing.
- Bacon! I am a die-hard believer that bacon belongs in baked beans. In this case, it’s sprinkled on top before being popped in the oven. It just adds that extra bit of salty flavor and some texture.
Recipe Ingredients
Let’s take a look at the handful of ingredients needed to make these homemade baked beans. Be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the exact measurements.
- Butter – For cooking the onion.
- Onion – Adds flavor to the beans.
- Pork and beans – Starting with canned pork and beans keeps this recipe simple while adding lots of extra flavor.
- Ketchup & mustard – Add layers of savory, tangy umami flavor to the beans.
- Molasses – Maple syrup or honey will also work, though the flavor won’t be as rich.
- Brown sugar – Sweetens the beans and adds a bit of a sticky texture.
- Smoked paprika – Adds a savory element and a bit of heat.
- Bacon – Thick cut bacon is ideal. Canadian bacon won’t work well.
How To Make Baked Beans
While these beans do take some hands-on time in the oven, the hands-on time Is quick and easy. The printable instructions can be found in the recipe card below.
- Prep. Preheat the oven to 350F. Grease the baking dish.
- Cook the onions. Melt the butter and saute the onions for 5-7 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Combine the ingredients. Stir together the pork and beans, ketchup, mustard, molasses, and brown sugar. Mix in the onions and smoked paprika.
- Assemble. Pour the mixture evenly into the baking dish. Lay the bacon pieces on top.
- Bake. Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours, until the top is glossy and caramelized.
- Enjoy. Let rest for 5-10 minutes. Serve and enjoy the best baked beans!
Tips & Variations
Here are a few ways to customize these homemade baked beans, as well as some general tips.
- Don’t drain the beans. There’s no need to drain any of the liquid from the pork and beans – we want all the saucy goodness to stay!
- Add some heat. For extra flavor, stir in ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Diced bell peppers or jalapeños can also be added for added texture and heat.
- Finish with a garnish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Make ahead. You can prepare the bean mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the bacon just before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Baked beans are the ultimate BBQ side dish. They pair well with anything and everything off the grill, from steak and chicken to burgers and hot dogs. One of my favorite ways to serve them is with a pulled pork sandwich and coleslaw.
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the baked beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Baked Beans
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 75 ounces pork and beans about 5 15-ounce cans
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 6 slices bacon uncooked, cut into thirds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork and beans, ketchup, mustard, molasses, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the sautéed onions and smoked paprika to the bean mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the bean mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Lay the bacon pieces across the top of the beans, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Place the dish on the middle rack of the oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours, or until the top is glossy and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the beans rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Last Step:
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