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Baked Beans with Bacon

With pantry staples like canned baked beans and just a few extra ingredients for flavor, this dish is quick to prepare but tastes like it simmered all day. The bacon adds a rich depth and crunch, while the mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire bring that irresistible tangy-sweet note that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Prep Time10 minutes
Active Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baked Beans with Bacon
Yield: 8

Equipment

  • Medium skillet or frying pan (for cooking bacon and onions)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish (8x8 or 9x13 depending on batch size)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Aluminum foil (optional for covering while baking)

Materials

  • 4 cups canned baked beans – Use your favorite brand like Bush’s or Heinz; don’t drain the liquid.
  • 6 slices bacon chopped – Use thick-cut for extra texture.
  • 1 small onion finely diced – Adds sweetness and aromatic flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar – For that signature sweet note.
  • 1 tablespoon mustard – Yellow or Dijon both work well.
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup – Adds richness and balance.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – For a bold umami kick.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – To add warmth and depth.

> Optional Add-Ins:

  • Dash of hot sauce for heat
  • 1 tablespoon molasses for deeper sweetness
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for more smoky flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Onions

  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it starts to crisp, about 5–6 minutes. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and golden, about 3–4 more minutes.
  • Drain off excess fat if desired, leaving a tablespoon or so in the pan for flavor.
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Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Baked beans
  • Cooked bacon and onions
  • Brown sugar
  • Mustard
  • Ketchup
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Black pepper
  • Stir until everything is evenly combined.
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Step 3: Bake

  • Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  • Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35–40 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly caramelized on top.
  • If you like crispier bacon on top, you can reserve a bit of the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking.
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Step 4: Serve Warm

  • Let the beans rest for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a chance to thicken and the flavors to come together beautifully.