Baked beans with bacon is the kind of dish that brings comfort to the table and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. A longtime family favorite, it's beloved for its simplicity, rich flavor and hearty, satisfying bite. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just craving something warm and nostalgic, this classic side never disappoints.
Learn how to make baked beans with bacon at home, plus tips to ensure delicious, foolproof results every time.
Baked beans with bacon: Comfort food that doesn't complicate
A crispy bacon and baked beans recipe is comfort food at its easiest — perfect for busy family cooks who need something simple, satisfying and stress-free. This one-dish wonder cuts down on prep and cleanup, making it a smart go-to for hectic weeknights or laid-back Sunday brunches.
Its savory-sweet blend of smoky bacon, tender beans and rich, flavorful seasoning hits all the right notes for both kids and adults. Whether you're hosting a get-together or just feeding a hungry household, this recipe delivers big taste without breaking the bank.
Preparing baked beans with bacon for the whole family
Serves: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 hr (15 min stovetop + 45 min baking)
Ingredients
- 6 slices of Hatfield® Thick-Cut Hardwood Smoked Bacon, chopped.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 3 (15-oz.) cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed.
- ½ cup ketchup.
- ¼ cup molasses.
- ¼ cup brown sugar.
- 1 Tbsp. yellow mustard.
- 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar.
- ½ tsp. smoked paprika.
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Step 2: In a large, deep sauté pan, cook the chopped bacon pieces over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- Step 3: Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté in the bacon grease for about five minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another one to two minutes, until fragrant.
- Step 5: Add the drained and rinsed navy beans to the pan and stir gently to combine.
- Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar and smoked paprika. Then, pour the sauce into the pan with the beans and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Step 7: Return the cooked bacon to the pan and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 8: Transfer the flavored bean mixture into a greased ovenproof baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, bake uncovered for 45 minutes, until bubbling and slightly caramelized on top.
- Step 9: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty, homemade baked beans with bacon!
If you're ready to dive in, head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Pro tips for bacon, beans and flavors that pop
Looking to take your baked beans experience to the next level? Consider these tips and tricks to master the texture, flavor and convenience of this recipe:
- Crisp your bacon to perfection: Cook your bacon in a cold skillet and let it slowly sizzle to golden perfection. This brings out the smoky flavor without burning the fat. Skip the high heat — it'll scorch the bacon and leave behind a bitter taste.
- Balance sweet and smoky: Taste as you go! If things lean too sweet, a splash of vinegar or a spoonful of mustard will cut through. Too smoky? Stir in extra beans, a bit more ketchup or even a touch of barbecue sauce. Resist the urge to overdo the sugar or spices upfront — build flavor gradually.
- Choose an oven-safe dish: Use a deep, oven-safe sauté pan or Dutch oven so you can cook, mix and bake in one go. It keeps the flavors locked in and your sink a lot cleaner. No one wants extra dishes after dinner.
- Add your own spin: Want to add a kick? Toss in chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder. Craving variety? Try kidney beans or pinto beans for a tasty twist. Just be sure your add-ins complement — not compete with — that rich, smoky bacon flavor.
- Make it ahead and double up: This dish is ideal for make-ahead meals. Prep it the night before or double the batch for easy lunches and leftovers. Try to avoid last-minute prep — it's a dish that tastes even better the next day!
Baked beans with bacon recipe FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions you may run into in the process:
What's the best kind of bacon to use for this recipe?
A classic cut of bacon is often too thin for this baked bean recipe — it can turn soft or practically vanish into the dish. That's why we recommend using a thick-cut option like Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon or Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon. It holds its texture during baking and delivers a rich, smoky flavor that stands out in every bite.
Can I use canned beans, or do I need to soak dried beans?
Canned navy beans work perfectly and save tons of time. Just be sure to drain and rinse them first. If you prefer dried beans, soak and cook them in advance — but keep in mind it adds hours to the prep.
What are the best sides to serve with bacon baked beans?
These beans pair well with grilled meats, cornbread, coleslaw or a crisp green salad. You can also serve them alongside baked potatoes, mac and cheese, roasted veggies or even buttery biscuits. They're hearty enough to shine on their own but versatile enough to complement a variety of meals.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Pop leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the sauce silky — not sticky.
Can I adjust the heat of this dish?
Definitely! Stir in diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne or chili powder or your favorite hot sauce. If you want to keep it mild for the kids, simply leave out the spice.
What's the best way to keep this recipe warm for a party or potluck?
Simple! Transfer everything to a slow cooker on the "warm" setting. It keeps the beans piping hot and party-ready without drying them out or taking up oven space.
Make mealtime magic with Hatfield® bacon
Baked beans with bacon is a must-try dish that's simple to make and bursting with flavor. The combination of savory bacon, sweet beans and rich seasoning makes it a crowd-pleasing meal and a family favorite.
With expertly pre-seasoned, high-quality Hatfield® bacon, you can save time and elevate your dish with unmatched flavor. Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or your next potluck, Hatfield® bacon takes the hassle out of cooking, letting you enjoy more of what matters — spending time with your loved ones!
Ready to bring flavor and convenience to your kitchen? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
