Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any gathering. This dish features the rich taste of bourbon and the smoky goodness of bacon, making it an irresistible side for BBQs, potlucks, or holiday picnics. With minimal effort required, these beans cook to perfection in your crockpot, allowing you to enjoy more time with friends and family.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• Sauce Ingredients
• Spices
• How to Make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• Step 1: Prepare the Beans
• Step 2: Cook the Bacon
• Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pot
• Step 5: Slow Cook in Crockpot
• Step 6: Thicken Before Serving
• How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans
• As a BBQ Side Dish
• In a Bean Salad
• On Toast
• As a Dip
• 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 is the best type of beans for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?
• Can I make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans without bourbon?
• How long do I need to cook Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?
• What should I serve with my Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?
• Can I customize the recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply soak the beans overnight and let your crockpot do the rest!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of bourbon, bacon, and spices creates a deliciously complex flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for BBQs or as a hearty main dish during colder months.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 9-12 people, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Comfort Food: Enjoy the warm, hearty goodness that brings everyone together.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this amazing recipe for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, ensure you have the right tools at hand. These will help streamline the cooking process and make your experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Crockpot
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for soaking and boiling your beans before adding them to the crockpot.
• Skillet: Used for browning the bacon and sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance flavors.
• Crockpot: Makes cooking easy by slowly simmering all ingredients together for hours.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb. dry navy beans (soaked overnight)
• 12 oz applewood smoked bacon (chopped)
• 1 sweet onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup bourbon (can omit & add additional chicken stock in its place)

Sauce Ingredients

• 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: Prepare the Beans

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

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet, brown chopped bacon until crisp.
2. Remove with slotted spoon to a paper towel to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

1. Add onions to the skillet with bacon grease.
2. Cook on medium heat until beginning to caramelize, about 15 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pot

1. In the same large pot used for soaking beans, combine remaining ingredients.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Add soaked beans and return to boil before pouring into crockpot.

Step 5: Slow Cook in Crockpot

1. Add crisp bacon, onions, and garlic with bacon grease into crockpot.
2. Cover and cook on high for 5–6 hours or on low for 10–12 hours.
3. Stir occasionally during cooking.

Step 6: Thicken Before Serving

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

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

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a comforting side dish, these beans can enhance any meal.

As a BBQ Side Dish

• Complement with Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers for a classic barbecue experience.
• Pair with Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread balances the smoky flavors of the beans.

In a Bean Salad

• Mix with Fresh Veggies: Add some diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for an extra crunch and freshness.
• Chill for Summer Picnics: Allow the beans to cool and serve them cold as part of a refreshing bean salad.

On Toast

• Serve on Crusty Bread: Spoon the baked beans over toasted bread for a delightful open-faced sandwich.
• Top with Cheese: Melt cheese on top of the beans on toast for an indulgent twist.

As a Dip

• Create a Bean Dip: Mash some of the beans and serve them warm with tortilla chips for dipping.
• Add Spices for Extra Flavor: Mix in jalapeños or additional spices for those who enjoy heat.

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How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

To get the most out of your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, follow these helpful tips that elevate flavor and texture.

• Soak Your Beans Overnight: This reduces cooking time and helps to soften the beans, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Use Quality Bourbon: A good quality bourbon enhances the flavor profile and adds depth to your dish.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amounts of brown sugar or maple syrup based on your personal preference for sweetness.
• Cook Low and Slow: For best results, opt for low heat settings. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Stir Occasionally: Give your mixture a gentle stir during cooking to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
• Let Them Sit After Cooking: Allowing the beans to sit on warm will help thicken them further and intensify their flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans pair wonderfully with various sides. Here are some popular options that complement their rich flavors perfectly.

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty beans.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad balances the smoky notes of the baked beans nicely.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy cheese sauce pairs well with the savory flavors of bacon-bourbon beans.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances summertime barbecues, making it an excellent choice alongside baked beans.
6. Fried Green Tomatoes: These crispy delights bring Southern charm and crunch that complements baked beans beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans experience.

• Not soaking the beans: Failing to soak dry navy beans overnight can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak them for at least 8 hours before cooking.
• Using low-quality bourbon: Cheap bourbon can compromise the flavor of your dish. Opt for a decent brand that you enjoy drinking, as it will enhance the overall taste.
• Skipping the bacon browning step: Browning the bacon adds depth and a smoky flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step; it makes a significant difference!
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary between crockpots. Use a timer and check periodically to ensure beans are tender but not mushy.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Different BBQ sauces have varying levels of sweetness and spice. Taste and adjust seasonings to achieve your preferred flavor balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• These beans can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-4 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of beans for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

Navy beans are ideal as they hold their shape well and absorb flavors nicely. However, you can also use pinto or great northern beans if preferred.

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

Yes, you can omit bourbon and replace it with additional chicken stock. The beans will still be delicious!

How long do I need to cook Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

Cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 10-12 hours. Check for tenderness before serving.

What should I serve with my Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

These baked beans pair well with BBQ meats, cornbread, or coleslaw. They’re perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings!

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra spices, different types of meat, or even veggies to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that elevate any meal. Their versatility makes them perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting flavors!