Brown Sugar and Bacon Baked Beans

Instructions
Cook the bacon partway through, about halfway done (8-10 minutes at 400F). Let cool and chop into bite-sized pieces.

In a skillet with the bacon grease or butter, sauté the onion and bell pepper for 5 mins until softened.

Add the remaining ingredients except bacon to the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Pour bean mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top evenly with the chopped bacon pieces.

Bake at 325°F for 2-3 hours, until thickened to your desired consistency.

Let cool for 5 mins before serving warm. Enjoy!

Notes

For vegetarian, omit bacon and use veggie broth instead of bacon grease. Jalapeños, ham, smoked sausage or other proteins can be added.

Baked beans can be made up to 2 days ahead. Store bean mixture and cooked bacon separately and assemble before baking. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 5-7 days. Reheat before serving.