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Loaded Baked Bean Casserole Recipe Easy Comfort Food with Crispy Bacon

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A hearty and comforting casserole featuring tender baked beans layered with smoky crispy bacon, a rich tangy sauce, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick, fuss-free dinner that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans baked beans
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the bacon: Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  3. Sauté onions and garlic: Using about 1 tablespoon of the reserved bacon fat, sauté the chopped onion for 4-5 minutes until translucent and slightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, combine baked beans, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to combine.
  5. Combine onions and sauce: Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the bean mixture and fold gently.
  6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the bean mixture to your baking dish and spread evenly. Crumble half of the crispy bacon over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly caramelized. Tent with foil if the top browns too fast.
  8. Add remaining bacon: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the rest of the crispy bacon on top.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Resist stirring the casserole once in the oven to develop a satisfying crust. If the beans are too thick, add a splash of water or broth before baking. Cook bacon slowly over medium heat for best crispiness. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze well.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked bean casserole, comfort food, bacon casserole, easy dinner, baked beans, crispy bacon, casserole recipe

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/loaded-baked-bean-casserole-recipe-easy-comfort-food-with-crispy-bacon/