Maple Bacon Baked Beans are your new favorite side dish, combining the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that make every bite unforgettable. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home, this dish will quickly become a household staple.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and a satisfying crunch to the dish. Make sure to cook it until crispy for the best texture.
Onion: Provides a foundational sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Garlic: Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic and slightly spicy notes.
Navy beans: The main body of the dish, these beans absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a creamy texture.
Maple syrup: The star sweetener that gives the dish its unique taste without being overpowering.
Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness and helps bind the sauce.
Apple cider vinegar: Balances out the sweetness with a little tang, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and depth to the dish with its rich, savory notes.
Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness that complements the sweetness of the syrup.
Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor profile, making it even more irresistible.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and enhancing all the other flavors.
These baked beans pair wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or pork. They're also a great addition to a vegetarian spread—just leave out the bacon. Serve them alongside a fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the richness.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven. Cook the bacon over medium heat until it reaches that perfect level of crispiness. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove it and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it's fragrant—nothing beats that smell!
Next, add the navy beans, maple syrup, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Mix everything well so the beans are thoroughly coated in that flavorful sauce.
Crumble the crispy bacon and stir it into the bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Once everything's combined, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the beans are bubbly and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even further, making every bite just perfect.
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