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Smoky Sweet Baked Beans with Bacon

A delectable union of sweet and spicy undertones, these baked beans are enriched with crisp smoky bacon, offering a hearty side dish ideal for gatherings.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1/2 onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 6 –8 slices bacon chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 –2 drops liquid smoke optional
  • 2 cans 28 oz each Pork and Beans
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 3/4 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions

  • Set the oven to preheat at 350°F.
  • Carefully open the pork and beans cans, discarding half of the excess liquid. In a sizable bowl, vigorously whisk together the ketchup, barbecue sauce, mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and liquid smoke until smooth and unified; reserve for later.
  • Warm a large cast iron or oven-proof skillet over medium heat, render the bacon pieces until they are partially cooked, then transfer them to a paper towel to drain.
  • In the remaining bacon drippings, sauté the diced onions for approximately 2 minutes until tender, then introduce the minced garlic and stir until its fragrance blooms.
  • Incorporate the pork and beans into the skillet, pour in the prepared sauce, and stir thoroughly to ensure an even coating. Scatter the partially cooked bacon atop the bean mixture.
  • Bake for about 1 hour, or until the beans have thickened and are bubbling.
  • To finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the bacon crisps to your preference. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.
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Notes

For a saucier consistency, retain all the liquid from the pork and beans.
Though optional, liquid smoke imparts a delightful depth of smoky essence. Select any preferred store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce.
Adjust the heat level with your favored brand of hot sauce; Louisiana’s pure hot sauce is a classic choice.