Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are the perfect addition to any gathering, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a cozy holiday meal. This recipe combines the sweet and smoky flavors of bourbon and bacon with hearty navy beans, creating a dish that everyone will love. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, these baked beans are sure to impress your guests while making your life easier.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Beans
• For the Sauce
• Sweeteners & Spices
• How to Make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Step 1: Soak the Beans
• Step 2: Brown the Bacon
• Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pot
• Step 5: Transfer to Crockpot
• Step 6: Let It Thicken
• How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• At a Barbecue
• As a Main Dish
• During the Holidays
• How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What beans are best for baked beans?
• Can I make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans without bourbon?
• How do I know when my beans are cooked?
• Can I add other ingredients?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of bourbon, brown sugar, and applewood smoked bacon creates an irresistible taste that enhances any meal.
• Easy Preparation: Simply soak the beans overnight and let your crockpot do all the work. This recipe is perfect for busy days!
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked beans pair wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a hearty main course.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 9 to 12 servings per batch, it’s great for potlucks or family gatherings where everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber and protein from navy beans, this recipe offers not just flavor but also nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Crockpot
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for soaking and boiling the beans, ensuring they are fully prepared before slow cooking.
• Skillet: Allows you to brown the bacon and sauté onions and garlic to infuse their flavors into the dish.
• Crockpot: The star of this recipe! It allows for slow cooking that melds all the flavors beautifully without requiring constant attention.

Ingredients

For the Beans

• 1 lb. dry navy beans (soaked overnight)
• 12 oz applewood smoked bacon (chopped)
• 1 sweet onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Sauce

• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup bourbon (can omit & add additional chicken stock in its place)
• 3/4 cup BBQ Sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup

Sweeteners & Spices

• 2 Tablespoons molasses
• 3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin

How to Make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Step 1: Soak the Beans

1. Pour dry navy beans into a large pot.
2. Cover them with water and let them sit overnight.
3. The next morning, drain and rinse the beans before setting them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Bacon

1. In a large skillet, add chopped bacon.
2. Cook over medium heat until browned and crisp.
3. Remove bacon using a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. In the same skillet with leftover bacon grease, add chopped onions.
2. Cook on medium heat until onions begin to caramelize (about 15 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pot

1. In the large pot used for soaking beans, combine chicken stock, bourbon (if using), BBQ sauce, ketchup, molasses, maple syrup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and ground cumin.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, add soaked beans back into the pot.

Step 5: Transfer to Crockpot

1. Pour the mixture into your crockpot.
2. Add in crispy bacon along with sautéed onions and garlic (including grease).
3. Cover and cook on high for 5 to 6 hours or low for 10 to 12 hours. Stir occasionally.

Step 6: Let It Thicken

1. Once cooked through, allow the crockpot to sit on warm for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
2. This helps thicken up your delicious baked beans before serving.

Now you’re ready to indulge in these rich and flavorful Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans! Enjoy them at your next event or as a comforting weeknight dinner option!

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

At a Barbecue

• Serve as a side: These beans pair perfectly with grilled meats like ribs or burgers, adding a smoky flavor.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of richness.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with cornbread: Enjoy these baked beans as the main attraction alongside warm cornbread for a hearty meal.
• Make it a bowl: Serve in bowls topped with sour cream and chopped green onions for added creaminess and color.

During the Holidays

• Festive presentation: Transfer to a decorative serving dish to add charm to your holiday spread.
• Add toppings: Include toppings like crispy fried onions or fresh herbs for an appealing touch.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, consider these helpful tips:

• Soak the beans overnight: This ensures they cook evenly and become tender during the long cooking process.
• Use quality bacon: Opt for applewood smoked bacon for that distinct smoky flavor that complements the bourbon.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup based on your taste preferences.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat or additional herbs for more depth of flavor.
• Let them rest: Allowing the beans to sit after cooking helps thicken the sauce and enhance the flavors.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are delicious on their own but can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Coleslaw – A refreshing, crunchy slaw balances the rich flavors of the baked beans beautifully.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and is perfect for summer barbecues.
3. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs well with the smoky beans.
4. Cornbread Muffins – Soft, buttery cornbread muffins are great for soaking up extra sauce from the beans.
5. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Macaroni and Cheese – The creamy texture of mac and cheese complements the hearty beans wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans can be easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak dry navy beans for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook properly.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: Adding too many ingredients might result in uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste can lead to bland flavor. Always sample your dish before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Choosing inferior ingredients can affect the overall flavor. Opt for high-quality bacon and bourbon for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high or low without proper timing can ruin the texture. Use a timer to keep track of cooking times accurately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans.

What beans are best for baked beans?

Navy beans are traditionally used for baked beans because of their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors well.

Can I make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans without bourbon?

Yes, you can omit bourbon and replace it with additional chicken stock for a delicious flavor without alcohol.

How do I know when my beans are cooked?

Beans should be tender and easily mashable. If they are still hard after cooking, they may need more time.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with peppers, different spices, or even other types of meat for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans make a delightful side dish perfect for BBQs or family gatherings. Their rich flavors from bacon and bourbon create an unforgettable experience. Don’t hesitate to tweak this recipe by adding your favorite spices or veggies!