Sides
Smoky Molasses Baked Beans
Navy beans bake low and slow in a sticky-sweet sauce of molasses, brown sugar, mustard, and bacon until deeply caramelized and irresistible.
These beans spend hours in the oven, bubbling away until the sauce turns thick and almost candy-like around the edges of the dish. It's the kind of side that turns a simple backyard barbecue into an occasion. Make a double batch, because there's never enough left for sandwiches the next day.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 (15 oz) cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
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1
Cook the baconIn an oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp, then add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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2
Mix the sauceStir in the molasses, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and water, whisking until combined.
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3
Add the beansFold in the drained beans, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
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4
Bake uncoveredTransfer to a preheated 300°F oven and bake uncovered for 2-2 1/2 hours, stirring every 45 minutes, until the sauce is thick and glossy.
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5
Check consistencyIf the sauce looks too thin in the last 30 minutes, leave the pot uncovered to let it reduce further.
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6
Rest and serveLet the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce sets slightly.
Okra & Oak Tip
Baking low and slow with the lid off is what caramelizes the sauce, so resist the urge to rush this one at a higher heat.
Storage
Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, soak 1 pound of dried navy beans overnight, simmer until just tender, then proceed with the sauce and baking steps.
Omit the bacon, sauté the onion in 2 tablespoons of oil, and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke for a similar smoky depth.
Nutrition
Per serving. Values are estimates.
300
Calories
11g
Protein
52g
Carbs
6g
Fat
