Southern Style Baked Beans with Bacon and Peppers
Rich, smoky baked beans loaded with bacon, onions, and peppers create the ultimate Southern comfort food side dish. Sweet brown sugar balances tangy chili sauce and mustard, while optional Creole seasoning adds a gentle kick. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings, these beans develop deep flavors as they bubble in the oven. The bacon renders its fat into the beans while crisping on top, creating irresistible texture contrast in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 10 slices bacon, divided
- 1 -1/2 cups chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped jalapeno or green bell pepper (or a combination)
- 3 large (1 pound 12 ounce) cans of pork and beans (I prefer Bush's original baked beans)vegetarian baked beans1:1dietary
less smoky but still hearty
- ½ cup chili sauce (see note)
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 3 heaping tablespoons light or brown brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning, or to taste, optional
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven
- 2
Parcook half the bacon slices if using for topping, or chop all bacon and cook, reserving half
- 3
Add onion and peppers to remaining bacon and drippings in skillet
- 4
Cook and stir over medium heat until softened
- 5
Stir in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil
- 6
Pour into ungreased baking dish and top with reserved bacon
- 7
Bake uncovered until bubbly
Tips
Parcook bacon just until fat renders but before it crisps to prevent overcooking during baking.
Use Bush's original baked beans for the best base, as they have the right consistency and flavor balance.
Let beans rest 5 minutes after baking to allow sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
Good to Know
Refrigerate up to 4 days in covered container. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
Assemble completely up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate. Add 10 minutes to baking time if cold.
Serve hot as side dish with grilled meats, cornbread, or at barbecue gatherings.
Common Mistakes
Cook bacon completely before baking to avoid greasy beans.
Don't skip the softening step for vegetables to avoid crunchy texture.
Use ungreased dish to prevent sticking and allow proper browning.
Substitutions
less smoky but still hearty
FAQ
Can I make these beans ahead of time?
Yes, assemble completely and refrigerate up to 1 day ahead. Add 10 minutes to baking time if starting from cold.
What if I don't have chili sauce?
Substitute with equal parts ketchup mixed with a splash of vinegar and hot sauce for similar tangy flavor.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with splash of water if needed.