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Old fashioned Southern baked beans being served in a white bowl.

Grandma's Southern Baked Beans Recipe

These old fashioned southern baked beans are rich, sweet, and smoky with bacon. A classic homemade comfort food side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and Sunday dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked navy beans
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • ¾ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup molasses
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup water or reserved bean cooking liquid

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it begins to crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pan.
  2. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked navy beans, bacon, onion, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and water. Stir until well combined.
  4. Transfer to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until thickened and bubbling. Let rest 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

How to Cook Dried Beans
Step 1: Rinse the dried beans and remove any debris or small stones.
Step 2: Soak the beans overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them by at least 2 inches.
Step 3: Drain and rinse the beans, then place them in a large pot and cover with fresh water.
Step 4: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 to 1½ hours until tender. Drain and use in your recipe.
Other recipe notes:
  • Bake uncovered for the last portion to thicken the sauce
  • Add a splash of water if beans become too thick
  • Flavor improves after chilling overnight
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • Freeze up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating

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