Pork and Beans
Classic Pork and Beans: A Nostalgic American Favorite
Savor the comforting flavors of this timeless dish that combines smoky bacon, tender beans, and a sweet-savory glaze. Perfect for summer barbecues or 4th of July gatherings, it’s a hearty crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Whether simmered on the stovetop or slow-cooked to perfection, every bite bursts with the essence of home-cooked goodness. The addition of hot dogs and chili beans offers a playful twist, making it both kid-friendly and deeply satisfying.
From backyard celebrations to cozy weeknight dinners, Classic Pork and Beans is the ultimate fusion of convenience and tradition. With just one pot, this recipe promises simplicity, flavor, and a side of cherished memories.
Classic Pork and Beans: Ingredients That Make This Dish Shine
- Smoky Bacon Crumbles: Adds a rich, savory foundation with irresistible crispness and depth.
- Tender Beans Trio: A medley of pork and beans, kidney beans, and chili beans for hearty texture and robust flavor.
- Sweet and Tangy Glaze: Ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, and honey blend to create a perfectly balanced sauce.
- Golden Onions: Sautéed to bring a subtle sweetness and aromatic warmth to the dish.
- Optional Hot Dogs: A playful addition for extra protein and nostalgic charm.
Recipe Tips
- Use Quality Bacon for Maximum Flavor
The bacon is a star ingredient in this dish, infusing the beans with a smoky, savory richness. Opt for thick-cut, high-quality bacon to enhance the flavor. Pre-cooking the bacon with onions ensures a crisp texture and avoids sogginess in the slow cooker. - Customize the Sweetness and Spice
The combination of brown sugar, honey, and chili beans creates a balance of sweetness and spice. Adjust these ingredients to suit your taste preferences—add more chili beans for heat or reduce the honey for a less sweet glaze. - Don’t Skip Occasional Stirring
When slow-cooking for several hours, stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent any beans from sticking to the bottom. This also helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a cohesive, flavorful dish.
What to Serve with Pork and Beans
- Classic Cornbread
Sweet, crumbly cornbread pairs perfectly with the smoky, tangy beans. It’s great for soaking up the rich sauce and adding a buttery contrast to the dish. - Grilled Vegetables
Lightly charred zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the hearty beans, offering a fresh and slightly smoky side that balances the dish’s richness. - Coleslaw
A crisp, tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and vibrant flavor to your plate. The creamy dressing contrasts the sweetness of the beans, making it a classic pairing for summer barbecues.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the bacon and hot dogs and replace them with plant-based alternatives. You can also add extra kidney or black beans for more protein. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. - Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?
Absolutely! Simmer the mixture on low heat in a large pot for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
Use mild chili beans instead of spicy ones and ensure the sweetness level is balanced. Including sliced hot dogs adds a fun, familiar touch that kids will enjoy!
Pork and Beans
Savor the comforting flavors of this timeless dish that combines smoky bacon, tender beans, and a sweet-savory glaze. Perfect for summer barbecues or 4th of July gatherings, it’s a hearty crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cans 11 oz each of pork and beans
- 1 can 16 oz red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can 15.5 oz chili beans, mild or spicy
- 1 cup of cooked bacon approximately 8 slices, crumbled
- 4 hot dogs sliced (optional)
- ½ cup of diced onion
- ½ cup of ketchup
- 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- ½ cup of honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Combine the diced onion and bacon, cooking them together until the bacon is crispy and the onion becomes translucent. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Transfer the pork and beans, kidney beans, and chili beans into a crockpot. If using hot dogs, mix the sliced pieces into the beans. Add ketchup, mustard, brown sugar, honey, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the prepared onion and bacon mixture into the crockpot. Stir the contents well, ensuring a consistent blend of flavors. Cover the crockpot and cook on a low setting for 8 to 10 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Serve the dish warm, directly from the slow cooker.
