Baked Beans Family Favorite Recipes

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large non-stick saucepan set over medium heat, saute onion and bell pepper in about a tablespoon cooking oil or bacon fat just until onion is translucent. Add all remaining ingredients to the pot with the onion and bell pepper, stirring gently to combine. Heat until just warmed through (not boiling), stirring occasionally. (Watch carefully, the sugar might cause it to stick.) Pour warmed beans into an 11x7" casserole dish (or equivalent) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly, stirring once halfway through baking time. If desired, garnish top with additional cooked bacon pieces or whole strips during last 5 minutes of baking time. Remove from oven and let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. (The beans will thicken more as they cool.)

Steps:

• In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, bring beans, salt and 2 qt. water to a boil; boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; let stand for 1 hour. Drain beans and discard liquid. Return beans to pan. Cover with remaining water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours or until beans are tender. Drain, reserving liquid. In a greased 2-1/2 qt. baking dish, combine beans, 1 cup liquid, onion, molasses, bacon, brown sugar, mustard and pepper. Cover and bake at 325° for 3 to 3-1/2 hours or until beans are as thick as desired thickness, stirring occasionally. Add more of the reserved cooking liquid if needed.