Beans with Bacon

Smoked Baked Beans with Bacon

Ingredients:

2 (28 oz) cans baked beans (Bush’s Original works great)

6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced

1 small onion, diced

1/2 green bell pepper, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup barbecue sauce

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat Smoker – Set your smoker to 225°F and use hickory, apple, or cherry wood for the best flavor.

2. Cook the Bacon – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. Leave about 1 tbsp of bacon grease in the pan.

3. Sauté Veggies – In the same skillet, cook the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft, about 3–4 minutes.

4. Mix Beans – In a large cast-iron skillet or aluminum pan, mix the baked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed veggies, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

5. Smoke the Beans – Place the pan in the smoker and smoke uncovered for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. The beans will thicken and absorb the smoky flavor.

6. Serve & Enjoy! – Let them cool slightly before serving. These beans pair perfectly with smoked brisket, ribs, or grilled