Baked beans with pork and beans are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or potlucks. This dish combines the hearty flavor of canned pork and beans with savory bacon, sweet and tangy seasonings, and a slow bake that brings everything together beautifully. If you’ve ever wondered how to make baked beans with pork and beans that taste homemade and rich, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that anyone can master.
Why Choose Pork and Beans for Baked Beans?
Using canned pork and beans is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. These beans come pre-cooked in a tomato-based sauce with bits of pork, giving your baked beans a head start on taste and texture. Instead of starting from scratch with dried beans, pork and beans provide a delicious base that you can enhance with a few simple ingredients like bacon, onions, and spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of baked beans with pork and beans:
– 3 cans of pork and beans (don’t drain them; the sauce is essential)
– 6 to 8 slices of thick-cut bacon (peppered bacon adds extra flavor)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional but adds a nice touch)
– 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or distilled white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bacon
Start by frying the bacon slices in a large skillet over medium-low heat. You want to render the fat without crisping the bacon completely. Once the bacon is partially cooked and the fat has rendered out (about 5-7 minutes), remove the bacon and set it aside on paper towels. Don’t discard the bacon grease—you’ll use it to cook the onions and peppers, which adds incredible flavor.
2. Sauté the Onions and Peppers
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender, about 5 minutes. This step infuses the dish with a sweet and savory base.
3. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. This sauce will give your baked beans a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
4. Combine Beans and Sauce
Pour the pork and beans (including the sauce from the cans) into a large mixing bowl or directly into an oven-safe casserole dish. Add the sautéed onion and pepper mixture, then pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the beans. Stir everything gently to combine well.
5. Bake the Beans
Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 13×9-inch casserole dish if you haven’t mixed it there yet. Lay the partially cooked bacon strips on top of the beans. Bake uncovered at 325°F (165°C) for about 2 hours. The slow baking thickens the sauce to a syrupy consistency and crisps the bacon beautifully. If you prefer, you can bake at 350°F (175°C) for 90 minutes, uncovering the last 30 minutes to brown the beans and reduce excess liquid.
Tips for Perfect Baked Beans with Pork and Beans
– Don’t drain the beans: The sauce in the cans is flavorful and helps create the rich baked beans sauce.
– Use thick-cut bacon: It crisps up nicely in the oven without burning quickly, adding texture and smoky flavor.
– Make ahead: You can assemble the dish the night before and bake it the next day. Just add the bacon topping before baking to keep it crispy.
– Add a kick: For a spicy twist, toss in some chopped jalapeños with the onions and peppers.
– Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients (except bacon) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add cooked bacon on top before serving or bake briefly to crisp it.
What to Serve with Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic BBQ side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled ribs, burgers, hot dogs, or roasted chicken. Add coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Baked beans made with pork and beans are a simple, flavorful, and hearty dish that brings comfort to any table. With just a few pantry staples and some bacon, you can create a delicious side that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering—you’ll be amazed at how easy and tasty homemade baked beans can be!
Enjoy your cooking adventure!