Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Add the rinsed and drained beans, cooked crispy bacon, brown sugar, molasses, ketchup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Stir all ingredients together gently until thoroughly combined and the beans are well-coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth.
Step 6: Taste the baked beans and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, sugar, or molasses) as desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade baked beans recipe crockpot!