Description
Rich, smoky baked beans studded with bacon and savory pork, then simmered in a sweet-tangy sauce of ketchup, mustard, molasses, and brown sugar. These “million dollar” beans are an indulgent side that will steal the show at any barbecue or potluck.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- cooking spray (To coat pan)
- 10 ounces Thick-cut bacon (cut into 1″ pieces)
- 8 ounces Bulk ground pork
- 1 cup Onion (chopped)
- 1 cup Bell pepper (chopped Any color)
- 28 oz (28-oz.) cans Baked beans (Your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup Ketchup
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar (Packed)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Molasses
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Prep & Brown the Meats:
- Lightly coat a large skillet or Dutch oven with cooking spray and heat over medium.
- Add the bacon pieces and cook until crisp, about 8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper-towel–lined plate, reserving fat in the pan.
- Add ground pork to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon, and brown until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- To the pork, add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté 4–5 minutes until softened and beginning to brown.
Build the Sauce:
- Stir in the baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
- Return the cooked bacon (and any collected juices) to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and flavors meld, about 20 minutes.
Finish (Optional):
- For an extra-deep flavor and bubbling top, transfer the beans to a 2-quart baking dish and bake in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or until hot and lightly caramelized on top.
Serve:
- Spoon the beans into a serving bowl or straight from the skillet. These are perfect alongside grilled meats, pulled pork sandwiches, or as a hearty standalone side.
Notes
- Make-Ahead: These beans taste even better reheated; prepare a day in advance and rewarm gently.
- Spice It Up: Stir in ½ tsp chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit bacon and pork; substitute with smoked tempeh or extra bell peppers.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American, BBQ, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 340
