Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Sauté the onions: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Prepare the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make a smooth sauce.
5. Mix the beans: Add the baked beans, cooked onions, and crispy bacon into the bowl with the sauce. Stir everything together to combine.
6. Bake: Pour the bean mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to caramelize slightly.
7. Serve: Let the beans cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra bacon pieces if desired.

Conclusion

These Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food, blending sweet, smoky, and savory elements in every bite. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or as a cozy side dish on a chilly night, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family. Once you taste the rich depth of flavor, you’ll understand why this classic dish has stood the test of time. Enjoy!