Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering. These hearty beans blend rich flavors of bacon and bourbon, creating a dish that stands out at BBQs, potlucks, and holiday dinners. With their sweet and smoky profile, these baked beans are sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

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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
• How to Make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Step 1: Soak the Beans
• Step 2: Cook the Bacon
• Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Slow Cook
• Step 6: Final Touches
• How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• As an Accompaniment
• In Tacos
• On Sandwiches
• As a Dip
• Over Rice
• 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
• Can I use a different type of bean for this recipe?
• Is it necessary to use bourbon in Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?
• How do I customize my Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
• What pairs well with Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, bourbon, and spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy Preparation: Simply soak the beans overnight, and let your crockpot do the rest of the work!
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for BBQs, picnics, or even as a main dish for a cozy dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 9-12 people, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber from navy beans and flavorful herbs, it’s both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Crockpot
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for soaking the beans overnight and bringing the mixture to a boil before transferring it to the crockpot.
• Crockpot: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing the flavors while you go about your day.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked bacon without excess grease.

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
• 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 the 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: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the chopped bacon until it becomes crisp.
2. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. In the large pot used for soaking beans, combine all remaining ingredients including 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 in soaked beans and return to a boil before pouring everything into the crockpot.

Step 5: Slow Cook

1. Add crisp bacon along with sautéed onions and garlic (with grease) into your crockpot.
2. Cover with lid; cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 10-12 hours while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Once fully cooked, let your crockpot remain on warm setting.
2. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour to thicken up your baked beans before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans!

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delicious, hearty dish that can enhance any meal. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a family dinner, these beans can be served in various ways to complement your main course.

As an Accompaniment

• Grilled Meats: Pair with grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers for a classic BBQ experience.
• Cornbread: Serve alongside warm cornbread for a comforting Southern meal.

In Tacos

• Baked Bean Tacos: Use the baked beans as a filling in soft tortillas topped with cheese and fresh cilantro.

On Sandwiches

• Bean and Bacon Sandwiches: Layer the beans on toasted bread with sliced tomatoes and lettuce for a hearty lunch option.

As a Dip

• Baked Bean Dip: Mash the beans and serve warm with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer at parties.

Over Rice

• Bean Bowl: Spoon the beans over white or brown rice for a filling meal that’s easy to prepare.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

To ensure your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Soak the Beans: Soaking overnight helps soften the dry navy beans and reduces cooking time.
• Use Quality Bourbon: A good-quality bourbon enhances flavor; choose one you enjoy drinking.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup based on your taste preference.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring every few hours helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the pot.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the beans to sit after cooking helps thicken the sauce and deepens the flavors.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add extra spices such as cayenne pepper for added heat or smoked paprika for more depth.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans pair excellently with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the beans.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and corn offer vibrant colors and flavors.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that complements BBQ dishes beautifully.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy texture of mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with smoky baked beans.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked in butter brings a delightful contrast to savory baked beans.
6. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your baked beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the Beans: Cooking the beans too long can turn them mushy. Monitor the cooking times carefully for perfect texture.
• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking beans overnight can lead to longer cooking times and uneven texture. Always soak your beans for at least 8 hours.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality bacon or bourbon will affect the flavor. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Ignoring Spice Measurements: Adding too much or too little spice can change the flavor profile significantly. Stick to the recommended measurements for balance.
• Not Stirring Occasionally: Failing to stir can result in uneven cooking. Stir your beans occasionally while they cook in the crockpot.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the beans to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as they freeze.

Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans.

Can I use a different type of bean for this recipe?

You can substitute other beans like pinto or black beans, but adjust cooking times as needed.

Is it necessary to use bourbon in Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

While bourbon adds unique flavor, you can omit it and replace it with more chicken stock if desired.

How do I customize my Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

You can add jalapeños for heat or extra vegetables like bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a tasty vegetarian version.

What pairs well with Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

These beans complement BBQ dishes, grilled meats, and are perfect for potlucks and picnics.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are not just delicious; they also offer versatility for various occasions. You can easily customize this recipe with different spices or add-ins based on your preferences. Give it a try at your next gathering, and enjoy its hearty flavors!