Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors of bourbon and smoky bacon. Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, these beans offer a delightful mix of sweetness and savory depth. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of bourbon, bacon, and spices creates a deliciously unique taste that elevates traditional baked beans.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set up this recipe in no time and let your crockpot do the work.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side for BBQs or as a hearty main for vegetarian meals by omitting bacon.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and enjoy warm, comforting beans whenever you need them.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish yields 9-12 servings, making it perfect for feeding a hungry group.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for soaking beans overnight and boiling ingredients together before adding them to the crockpot.
• Crockpot: This tool is key to slow-cooking the beans to perfection while infusing them with all those wonderful flavors.

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

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin

How to Make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Step 1: Soak the Beans

• Pour beans into a large pot, cover with water, and let sit overnight.
• The next morning, drain and rinse beans then set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

• In a large skillet, brown chopped bacon until crisp.
• Remove bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

• Add onions to the pan with bacon grease.
• Cook on medium heat until beginning to caramelize (about 15 minutes).
• Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• In the same large pot used for soaking beans, combine remaining ingredients.
• Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Add soaked beans and return to boil. Pour everything into the crockpot.

Step 5: Add Bacon and Cook

• In the crockpot, add crisp bacon along with sautéed onions and garlic plus any remaining bacon grease.
• Cover and cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 10-12 hours. Stir occasionally.

Step 6: Thicken Before Serving

• When beans are fully cooked, let crockpot sit on warm setting for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour to thicken before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans at any gathering!

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans make a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements a variety of meals. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

At a BBQ

• Serve with Grilled Meats: Pair these beans with grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers for a classic BBQ feast.
• Offer Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw balance the rich flavors of the beans beautifully.

During Holiday Gatherings

• Add to a Potluck Spread: These beans are a crowd-pleaser and can be a comforting addition to any potluck table.
• Serve with Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky beans.

As a Comfort Food

• Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of richness and flavor.
• Garnish with Chives: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a hint of onion flavor that complements the dish well.

As Leftovers

• Reheat for Quick Meals: Use leftover beans as a quick lunch or dinner option. They reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Perfecting your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans can elevate this dish from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to get it just right.

• Soak Your Beans: Soaking navy beans overnight ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
• Use Quality Bourbon: A good bourbon enhances the flavor; choose one you enjoy sipping for best results.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup based on your sweetness preference.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking in the crockpot.
• Let Them Rest: Allowing the beans to sit on warm after cooking thickens them up nicely before serving.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices for an extra kick, like cayenne or chili powder.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal.

1. Cornbread: This sweet bread is a traditional pairing that soaks up the flavors perfectly.
2. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrition alongside your hearty beans.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a lovely contrast in texture and temperature.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy dish offers comfort that complements the savory beans well.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw cuts through the richness, making it a refreshing side option.
6. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread can be used to scoop up those delicious beans, adding another layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, small errors can lead to big flavor losses. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the beans overnight can result in undercooked beans. Always soak your navy beans for at least 8 hours before cooking.
• Using low-quality bacon: Cheap bacon may lack flavor and fat. Choose a high-quality applewood smoked bacon for the best taste in your baked beans.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary by slow cooker. Check your beans after the recommended time to ensure they are tender without being mushy.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Each brand of BBQ sauce has different flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings like brown sugar and molasses according to your preference.
• Neglecting to stir occasionally: Stirring helps distribute flavors evenly. Remember to give your crockpot a gentle stir every couple of hours during cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store 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 individual portions using freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beans in a covered dish and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can omit the bourbon and replace it with additional chicken stock for a similar depth of flavor.

What type of beans are best for this recipe?

Navy beans are commonly used due to their creamy texture, but you can also use pinto or great northern beans as alternatives.

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

Feel free to add spices like chili powder or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also try different BBQ sauces for unique flavors.

Can I use canned beans instead of dry ones?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use canned navy beans. Just reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.

How do I know when my baked beans are done?

Beans should be tender but not mushy. If they take longer than expected, continue cooking them until they reach that perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Perfect for summer BBQs or cozy winter gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like different types of meats or spices to make it truly your own!