A delightful twist on the classic baked beans, perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the right texture for your dish.
In a skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Cook the pancetta slowly to render out the fat and achieve a crispy texture.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until golden and caramelized.
Use the rendered fat from the pancetta to enhance the flavor of the onions.
In a casserole dish, combine the pork and beans, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, brown sugar, ketchup, and smoked paprika.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Add the cooked pancetta and caramelized onions to the casserole dish, stirring gently to combine.
Stir gently to avoid breaking the beans while ensuring even mixing.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until bubbling and heated through.
Check halfway through to ensure the top doesn't dry out; cover with foil if needed.
Serve warm as a side dish or main course, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a touch of color and freshness.