Imagine a side dish that's so irresistible, it'll make your taste buds dance and your dinner guests beg for the recipe! Our Spicy Bacon Baked Beans are not just another boring bean dish – they're a flavor explosion that combines the smoky richness of crispy bacon, the sweet tang of brown sugar, and a kick of cayenne that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for the perfect comfort food to warm up a chilly evening, these baked beans are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups canned baked beans
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your baked beans cook evenly and develop a rich flavor.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook the bacon until it is crispy and browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the bacon is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the remaining bacon drippings. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned baked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed onions, brown sugar, mustard, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will allow the beans to cook thoroughly and absorb the flavors.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during the initial cooking phase.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to heat through.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and slightly caramelized on top. This step will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Once done, remove the baked beans from the oven and let them sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve warm as a hearty side dish or a main dish, and enjoy your delicious Spicy Bacon Baked Beans!
Tips
- Choose Quality Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness. The more flavorful the bacon, the better your beans will taste.
- Don't Rush the Bacon: Cook it slowly to render out the fat and get that perfect crispy texture. This will add depth to your entire dish.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance. Start with less and add more if you want an extra kick.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If possible, use a cast iron skillet for both cooking the bacon and baking the beans. It helps distribute heat evenly and adds extra flavor.
- Let It Rest: Always let the beans sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to settle.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance and reheat before serving.Pro tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon or a few drops of liquid smoke to the bean mixture!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
