Million Dollar Baked Beans are a deliciously rich and creamy twist on traditional baked beans. Made with a blend of sweet, savory, and creamy ingredients, these baked beans are perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. They have a rich flavor profile, thanks to ingredients like bacon, brown sugar, and a creamy cheese sauce that make them stand out from regular baked beans.
Here’s how to make Million Dollar Baked Beans:
Ingredients:
- 2 (15 oz) cans of baked beans (such as Bush’s or another favorite)
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave a small amount of bacon grease in the skillet.
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Cook the Onion:
- In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat until softened and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
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Mix the Baked Beans:
- In a large bowl, combine the cans of baked beans, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and the cooked onion. Stir to mix everything well.
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Add the Bacon and Cheese:
- Stir in the crispy bacon (reserve a little for garnish if desired) and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Add the sour cream to the mixture and mix everything together.
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Bake the Beans:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the bean mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. If desired, sprinkle the reserved bacon on top of the beans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and the top is slightly caramelized.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the beans cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or extra bacon bits, if desired.
Tips:
- Customize with Meat: For a heartier version, you can add ground beef, sausage, or even chopped ham along with the bacon for extra protein.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these beans a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Spicy Version: If you like a bit of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the beans for extra flavor.
- Cheese Variation: You can use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or gouda, for a unique twist.
These Million Dollar Baked Beans will be a hit at any gathering, offering a creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile that everyone will love!