There is nothing quite like the comforting, hearty flavors that come from a classic Southern dish, and this Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern) Recipe truly captures that warmth and depth of taste. Imagine tender beans simmered in a rich, smoky sauce bursting with sweet molasses, tangy vinegar, and the unmistakable sizzle of crispy bacon. It’s that perfect blend of savory and sweet with a slight kick that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds, whether served at a cozy weeknight dinner or your next backyard barbecue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each plays a crucial role in building the signature flavors and satisfying texture of this Southern favorite. From the smoky bacon lending its meaty depth to the molasses adding that subtle sweetness and richness, you’ll appreciate how every component works in harmony.
- Oil (1 tbsp): Just enough to start the bacon sizzling without sticking to the pan.
- Bacon (150g/5 oz, chopped): The star of the dish for smoky, savory goodness and a wonderful chewy texture.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds a sweet aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- Garlic (3 cloves minced or 1 1/2 tsp garlic paste): Provides a gentle but flavorful punch that complements the onion and bacon.
- Red kidney beans (3 cans, 400g/14 oz each, drained and rinsed): These beans are hearty and hold up beautifully to slow cooking without becoming mushy.
- Ketchup (3/4 cup): Brings a tangy sweetness and pairs perfectly with tomato elements.
- Tomato passata or puree (3/4 cup): Contributes a fresh, slightly acidic base that balances the richness.
- Molasses (1/4 cup): The secret to authentic Southern depth, introducing a smoky sweetness that lifts the sauce.
- Cider vinegar (2 tbsp): Adds a subtle tang to cut through the richness and brighten the flavors.
- Water (3/4 cup): Helps create the perfect saucy consistency as the beans simmer.
- Mustard powder (2 tsp) or Dijon/American mustard (1 tbsp): Offers a gentle kick and complexity that ties the ingredients together.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 1/2 tsp): Deepens the savory notes with its umami richness.
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp): Gives a subtle warmth and keeps the dish from feeling flat.
- Salt & pepper (3/4 tsp each, plus more to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor layer.
How to Make Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Begin by heating the oil in a large pan over high heat (feel free to skip the oil if your bacon is very fatty). Toss in the chopped bacon and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the fat to render and the edges to get delightfully crispy. This step sets a flavor-packed foundation, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic right into the pan with the bacon. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until everything turns golden and fragrant. This caramelization adds tons of sweetness and aroma that will elevate the overall dish.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Sauce Ingredients
Next, stir in the drained and rinsed beans, ketchup, tomato passata, molasses, cider vinegar, water, mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the beans get coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Simmer or Bake the Beans
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pan with a lid. You can either reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook on the stove for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, or place the covered pan in a preheated oven at 160°C/325°F for 60 minutes. Either method tenderizes the beans and melds the flavors perfectly.
Step 5: Slow Cooker Alternative
If you prefer a hands-off approach, reduce the water to 1/4 cup, transfer the bean mixture to a slow cooker, and cook on low for 6 hours. This method allows the beans to soak up the smoky, sweet sauce slowly, resembling that authentic Southern slow-cooked magic.
Step 6: Final Touches
When the cooking time is up, check that the sauce has thickened and become glossy. If it seems too thin, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Your Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern) Recipe is now ready to impress!
How to Serve Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or scallions adds brightness and a pop of color, balancing the rich, hearty beans beautifully. You might also love topping them with a few crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs amazingly well with classic Southern staples like cornbread, creamy coleslaw, or smoky grilled meats. Picture spooning these baked beans beside some perfectly charred ribs or alongside a juicy smoked brisket to create the ultimate comfort meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not get a little playful and serve these beans in hollowed-out baked potatoes, or spoon them over a warm, toasted baguette to make a rustic bean toast? They also make a fantastic filling for stuffed peppers, adding smoky sweetness that will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop overnight, making your baked beans taste even better the next day!
Freezing
These beans freeze wonderfully. Portion them out in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy the same delicious taste and texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to warm evenly. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans instead of kidney beans?
Absolutely! While red kidney beans are traditional, you can use navy beans, pinto beans, or even black beans depending on your preference. Just be sure to use canned beans that hold their shape well to avoid mushiness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and start by sautéing the onions and garlic in oil or butter. You can add a smoky ingredient like smoked paprika to mimic that bacon aroma and add depth to the sauce.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give your baked beans an extra kick. Jalapeños or chipotle peppers can also be great additions for those who like bold, fiery flavors.
What kind of molasses should I use?
Use unsulfured molasses for the best flavor—it’s richer and less bitter than the sulfured variety. Blackstrap molasses can be a bit strong and bitter, so it’s best to stick with regular unsulfured molasses for this recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a party?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully, and you’ll save precious time on the day of your event.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern) Recipe is one of those dishes that always feels like a warm hug from the South. It’s full of heart, bursting with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Once you try making it yourself, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic that brings people together. So grab your ingredients, get that bacon sizzling, and enjoy the simple, delicious pleasure of Southern baked beans done right!
Print
Homemade Baked Beans with Bacon (Southern) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Southern-style homemade baked beans recipe features tender red kidney beans slow-cooked with crispy bacon, aromatic onions, garlic, and a rich, tangy tomato-molasses sauce. Perfect as a comforting side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners, these baked beans can be prepared on the stovetop, baked in the oven, or made in a slow cooker to suit your preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil
- 150g (5 oz) bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 1/2 tsp garlic paste)
- 3 x 400g (14 oz) cans red kidney or other beans, drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup ketchup
- 3/4 cup tomato passata or US tomato puree
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tbsp cider vinegar
- 3/4 cup water (reduce to 1/4 cup if using slow cooker)
- 2 tsp mustard powder (or 1 tbsp Dijon or American mustard)
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- Additional salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Heat oil over high heat in a large skillet or saucepan (omit oil if bacon is very fatty). Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 2 minutes until it begins to crisp.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the bacon. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns golden along with the bacon.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the drained beans, ketchup, tomato passata, molasses, cider vinegar, water, mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover with a lid. For stovetop method, reduce heat to medium-low and cook gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For oven method, transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake at 160°C (325°F) for 60 minutes.
- Slow Cooker Option: If using a slow cooker, reduce water to 1/4 cup. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 hours.
- Thicken Sauce and Season: After cooking, uncover and cook for a few more minutes with the lid off if the sauce needs thickening. The sauce should be glossy and rich. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Use kidney beans or any preferred canned beans drained and rinsed thoroughly.
- If bacon is very fatty, oil can be omitted to reduce excess fat.
- Molasses adds a deep sweetness and color; substitute with dark brown sugar if unavailable.
- Worcestershire sauce brings a rich umami flavor, but ensure it fits dietary preferences.
- The dish works well as a hearty side for barbecues, with cornbread, or alongside grilled meats.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.
