Description
These Easy Ultimate Baked Beans are the smoky-sweet sidekick your BBQ spread has been missing! Loaded with bacon, garlic, molasses, and a kick of mustard, they’re irresistibly rich, comforting, and easy to toss together in the oven or slow cooker.
Ingredients
1 (28 oz) can baked beans (Bush’s Original recommended)
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped into
1/4 inch pieces
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons molasses
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Swap:
Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar if you want a deeper, woodsy sweetness.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Combine all ingredients in a casserole dish, cast iron pan, or any oven-safe container. Stir until well mixed.
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Bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring halfway through to keep the flavors evenly distributed.
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Serve warm, straight from the oven. These beans are perfect with grilled meats, hot dogs, or as a hearty picnic side.
Slow Cooker Option: Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
Notes
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Make-ahead friendly: Prep everything the day before and refrigerate until ready to bake.
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Smoky twist: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or swap bacon for smoked sausage for extra BBQ flair.
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Thicker beans: Bake longer or stir in 1 tablespoon tomato paste for a thicker consistency.
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Feeds a crowd: This recipe scales easily—double it in a 9×13 dish for potlucks and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American