Dutch Oven Baked Beans

Ingredients

  • ½ pound center-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 (30 oz) cans pork and beans
  • 1 green pepper, chopped
  • 1 (14 oz) bottle ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup dark molasses
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Nothing says comfort food like a big pot of baked beans, especially when they’re made outdoors in a Dutch oven. This classic recipe blends crispy bacon, sweet brown sugar, and rich molasses with hearty beans for a warm and filling side dish that steals the show at any meal.

Perfect for campfire cooking, backyard BBQs, or church potlucks, these beans are simple to prep and can easily feed a crowd.

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    In a 12-inch Dutch oven, cook the bacon pieces until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving just a bit of the grease in the pot.
  • 2
    In the remaining bacon fat, lightly brown the chopped onion for added flavor.
  • 3
    Return the cooked bacon to the Dutch oven. Stir in the pork and beans, green pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
  • 4
    Spread a layer of low heat coals under the oven, and place additional coals on the lid. Simmer the beans for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

Serving Suggestions

 Serve as a side with:

  • Grilled meats like ribs, brisket, or hot dogs

  • Dutch oven cornbread or biscuits

  • At family reunions, church picnics, or campouts


Why These Beans Are a Crowd Favorite

 Smoky-sweet flavor from the bacon, molasses, and brown sugar
 Perfect for campfire or charcoal cooking
 Feeds a dozen—great for gatherings
 Foolproof recipe with everyday ingredients

You can even make it ahead, then warm it up in the Dutch oven at your campsite or event. Want to spice it up? Add a dash of cayenne or a few chopped jalapeños. Like it heartier? Stir in some cooked sausage or ground beef for a complete meal.

Roughing It Easy

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