Imagine a side dish so incredibly delicious that it steals the show at every barbecue, potluck, and family gathering. These Stove Top Baked Beans are not your ordinary canned beans - they're a flavor-packed, homemade sensation that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. With a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes, this quick and easy dish transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon mustard
Instructions
- Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution of flavor.
- If using raw bacon, cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and crumble into small pieces, reserving a small amount of bacon grease in the pan.
- In the same skillet with reserved bacon grease, sauté the diced onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Open the two cans of baked beans and pour them into the skillet with the sautéed onions.
- Add the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and crumbled bacon to the beans. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the bean mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook uncovered for approximately 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding salt and pepper to preference.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnished with additional crumbled bacon if desired.
Tips
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose a robust barbecue sauce and thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor impact.
- Bacon Matters: If possible, use applewood smoked bacon for an extra layer of smoky complexity.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Simmer the beans gently to allow flavors to develop and sauce to thicken without burning.
- Customize Your Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance.
- Perfect Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
- Garnish Options: Consider topping with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
