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Cozy Loaded Baked Bean Casserole Recipe with Brown Sugar and Bacon

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A warm, comforting baked bean casserole featuring sweet brown sugar and crispy bacon, perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) baked beans (preferably Bush’s Best)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped and cooked until crisp
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar (dark brown sugar preferred)
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat and chop into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
  3. Sauté the diced onion in the bacon drippings over medium heat until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and sugar begins to dissolve.
  5. Add both cans of baked beans (including sauce) and the sautéed onions to the bowl. Stir gently to coat the beans evenly with the sauce mixture.
  6. Transfer the bean mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle chopped bacon over the top.
  7. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbling around the edges and cheese is golden and melted.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Cook bacon separately for crispiness. Sauté onions in bacon fat for added flavor. If sauce is too runny, drain some liquid from beans before baking. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving to set. For a leaner option, use turkey bacon or vegetarian smoked sausage. Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked bean casserole, brown sugar, bacon, comfort food, easy casserole, family dinner, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/cozy-loaded-baked-bean-casserole-recipe-with-brown-sugar-and-bacon/