The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon is a delightful and hearty dish that will elevate your next gathering or barbecue. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of slow-cooked navy beans with a rich brown sugar molasses sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. Ideal for picnics, family dinners, or potlucks, these baked beans are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavor profile and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of hickory smoke and molasses creates a rich, smoky sweetness that enhances every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a comforting side for any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber from navy beans and flavored naturally, it’s a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
• Generous Portions: This recipe serves 14 people, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey turkey bacon, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Stockpot (oven-safe)
• Casserole dish (oven-safe)
• Stove
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for soaking the dried navy beans effectively before cooking.
• Stockpot (oven-safe): Used for boiling the beans and later baking them to develop flavor in the oven.
• Casserole dish (oven-safe): Provides ample space for cooking larger portions in the oven while allowing even heat distribution.

Ingredients

To make The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey turkey bacon, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb dried navy beans
• 7 cups water
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ tbsp mustard powder
• 2 tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder (or ½ onion, diced)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tbsp hickory liquid smoke
• 6 tbsp unsulphured molasses
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• ⅓ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2¾ cup water
• 8 strips thick Turkey turkey bacon
• 3 tbsp Turkey turkey bacon grease
• ½ cup reserved cooked bean water

How to Make The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

Step 1: Soak the Beans

1. Fill a large pot with water.
2. Pour in the dried navy beans and cover.
3. Soak for about 8–12 hours; overnight is best.

Step 2: Boil the Beans

1. Drain the soaked beans and rinse them to remove excess starch.
2. In a large stockpot, bring the remaining water (8 cups) and soaked beans to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a slow boil; cook uncovered for about 1½ hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Drain the cooked beans over a bowl to save the bean water.
2. Return beans to an oven-safe stockpot or large casserole dish.
3. Add brown sugar, mustard powder, salt, pepper, onion powder, and minced garlic to the pot.

Step 4: Mix in Flavorings

1. Stir in hickory liquid smoke, molasses, maple syrup, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and additional water.

Step 5: Bake First Time

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F.
2. Bake uncovered for about two hours.

Step 6: Cook Turkey Bacon

1. In a skillet on the stovetop, cook Turkey turkey bacon until lightly browned but not crispy.
2. Cut into chunks and drain grease into a bowl.
3. If using raw onion instead of onion powder, cook it along with the bacon for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Final Mixing Before Baking

1. Stir in reserved cooked bean water (½ cup), Turkey turkey bacon grease (3 tbsp), and chopped Turkey turkey bacon into the pot containing baked beans.

Step 8: Bake Again

1. Cook uncovered for another hour; stir halfway through baking time.

Tip:

For a less thick sauce, add more water during baking or let it bake longer for thicker sauce consistency.

Enjoy your deliciously flavorful baked beans as a perfect side dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

Serving baked beans can elevate any meal, especially when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your experience of The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon.

With Grilled Meats

• Chicken or Turkey: Juicy grilled chicken or turkey complements the smoky flavors in the baked beans.
• Beef Brisket: The richness of beef brisket pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy beans.

As a Dip

• Tortilla Chips: Serve baked beans as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
• Veggie Sticks: Pair with fresh vegetables like carrots and celery for a healthy option.

In a Sandwich

• Pulled Chicken Sandwiches: Spread baked beans on a pulled chicken sandwich for added flavor and texture.
• Sloppy Joes: Incorporate baked beans into sloppy joes for an extra layer of taste.

How to Perfect The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

To ensure your baked beans turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture in your dish.

• Bold soaking technique: Soaking navy beans overnight helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time.
• Bold spice balance: Adjust spices according to your preference; adding more onion powder or garlic can enhance the flavor.
• Bold consistent stirring: Stir the beans halfway through baking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Bold moisture control: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water added during cooking.
• Bold slow-cooking advantage: Cooking at lower temperatures over longer periods allows flavors to develop fully.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

Baked beans are versatile and pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when serving The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey turkey bacon.

1. Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that balances the sweetness of baked beans; try making it with a vinegar-based dressing.
2. Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce of baked beans, making it a classic pairing.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrition; zucchini, bell peppers, and corn work well.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a contrasting texture; consider using mustard for extra zing.
5. Macaroni Salad: A cool pasta salad complements the warm beans nicely; it’s easy to prepare in advance.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a delightful crunch; serve it on the side for dipping into the beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon, it’s easy to overlook some details. Avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the navy beans can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak them for 8-12 hours to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
• Neglecting to Reserve Bean Water: Discarding all the bean water can diminish flavor. Reserve some to enhance the final dish’s texture and taste.
• Overcooking Turkey turkey bacon: Cooking turkey bacon until crispy before adding it can dry it out. Aim for a light brown color and add it in chunks for better integration.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If you want a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to bake longer or reduce the water. Monitor the sauce thickness as it cooks for your desired consistency.
• Underseasoning: Skipping spices or using too little salt can result in bland beans. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked beans in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Portion servings for easier reheating later.

Reheating The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Place on medium heat in a saucepan, stirring often until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the best baked beans recipe?

This recipe features delicious flavors from molasses, maple syrup, and hickory smoke that complement the tender navy beans perfectly.

Can I customize The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices or add other ingredients like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

How long does it take to make The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey bacon?

The total time includes soaking, cooking, and baking, which averages around 750 minutes, but most of that is inactive time.

What can I serve alongside baked beans?

Baked beans pair well with grilled meats, cornbread, or salads. They make an excellent side dish at barbecues and gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Best Baked Beans Recipe with Turkey turkey bacon is a delightful dish that combines sweet and smoky flavors, making it a hit at any gathering. It’s versatile too—you can easily customize it with different spices or vegetables. Try this recipe at your next picnic or barbecue; your guests will be asking for seconds!