Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds! These Molasses Bacon Baked Beans are not just a recipe; they're a culinary journey that combines the rich, deep sweetness of molasses with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. Perfect for summer barbecues, cozy winter dinners, or any time you crave a hearty, flavor-packed dish that screams pure comfort food.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the dried navy beans thoroughly and remove any stones or damaged beans. Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Allow beans to soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans. Transfer beans to a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot.
- In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and releases its fat. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving the bacon fat.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, sauté the diced onion until translucent and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sautéed onions, crispy bacon pieces, molasses, brown sugar, water, salt, and pepper to the beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover the pot and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the beans periodically and add more water if they appear too dry. The beans should remain slightly moist but not soupy.
- The beans are done when they are tender, and the sauce has thickened to a rich, glossy consistency.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to further thicken.
Tips
- Soak those beans thoroughly: Overnight soaking is crucial for creating tender, perfectly cooked beans that aren't tough or grainy.
- Don't rush the bacon: Cooking bacon slowly helps render out the fat and create those deliciously crispy bits that add incredible flavor to the dish.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Stir occasionally during baking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- If the beans look too dry during cooking, add a little hot water to maintain moisture without making the dish soupy.
- Let the beans rest after cooking - this helps the sauce thicken and allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
