Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any gathering. Their rich taste comes from a combination of brown sugar, molasses, and the robust notes of bourbon and bacon. These beans are not just delicious; they are also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a family picnic, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans offer numerous advantages that make them a must-try.

• Flavorsome Combination: Enjoy the rich taste of bacon and bourbon mixed with sweet and tangy ingredients.
• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for BBQs, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a side dish or even as a main course with cornbread.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat easily without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools before starting your recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: Allows for slow cooking, enhancing flavors while you relax.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning bacon and caramelizing onions, adding depth to your beans.
• Large pot: Ideal for soaking beans and blending ingredients before transferring to the crockpot.

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 and 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

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 with a slotted spoon to a paper towel.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Combine remaining ingredients in the same large pot that you soaked the beans. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add beans and return to boil. Pour into crockpot.

Step 5: Add Final Ingredients

Add crisp bacon, onions, and garlic with bacon grease into the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 10-12 hours. Stir occasionally.

Step 6: Thicken Beans

When beans are fully cooked, let the crockpot sit on warm setting and simmer for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour to thicken.

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. They pair well with a variety of foods, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this hearty dish.

At a BBQ

• Grilled Meats – These baked beans complement grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers perfectly and add a smoky flavor.
• Cornbread – Serve alongside warm cornbread for a classic Southern touch. The sweetness pairs well with the beans.

At a Picnic

• Sandwiches – Pair the beans with pulled pork or brisket sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
• Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the beans and adds crunch.

For Family Dinners

• Roasted Vegetables – Add roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
• Potato Salad – This classic side dish complements the sweet and savory flavors of the beans.

As Leftovers

• Breakfast Hash – Combine leftover beans with eggs and potatoes for a hearty breakfast option.
• Taco Filling – Use them as a filling in tacos for a unique twist on traditional recipes.

How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Perfecting your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Soak Your Beans – Soaking overnight helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Use Quality Bourbon – Choose a good quality bourbon for depth of flavor; it enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Adjust Sweetness – Taste and adjust sweetness levels by adding more brown sugar or maple syrup based on your preference.
• Stir Occasionally – Stirring during cooking prevents sticking and promotes even cooking, ensuring all flavors meld together.
• Let Them Rest – Allowing the beans to sit after cooking thickens them up as they cool slightly, enhancing their texture.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder for an extra kick!

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans shine as a side dish but can be complemented by various other sides. Here’s a list of sides that go wonderfully with them.

1. Coleslaw – A crisp and tangy slaw that provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beans.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds an enjoyable crunch and is perfect for summer gatherings.
3. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese creates comfort food perfection when served alongside baked beans.
4. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce from the beans.
5. Potato Wedges – Flavorful potato wedges bring heartiness and balance out the sweetness of the baked beans.
6. Caesar Salad – A light Caesar salad offers a fresh option that cuts through the richness while adding greens to your meal.
7. Fried Green Tomatoes – A Southern favorite that adds texture and complements the smoky flavor of bacon in the beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the navy beans overnight can lead to tough beans. Always soak them to ensure they cook evenly and are tender.
• Using low-quality bacon: Cheap bacon may lack flavor and render too much fat. Opt for applewood smoked bacon for a rich taste in your baked beans.
• Overlooking the seasoning: Failing to properly season can make the dish bland. Don’t forget to taste and adjust spices like smoked paprika and cumin for depth.
• Forgetting to stir occasionally: If you don’t stir the beans, they may stick or burn at the bottom of the crockpot. Stir them every couple of hours for even cooking.
• Not letting them thicken properly: Serving immediately after cooking can result in runny beans. Allow the dish to sit on warm for 30-60 minutes to achieve the desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instructions

• Transfer cooled beans into freezer-safe containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place beans in a covered oven-safe dish and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! You can omit bourbon and replace it with additional chicken stock. The dish will still be delicious without it.

How do I adjust the sweetness in Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar or maple syrup. You can always adjust these ingredients based on your taste preferences.

What’s a good side dish with Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

These beans pair well with BBQ meats, coleslaw, or cornbread. They make an excellent addition to any BBQ spread.

How long do I need to cook these beans?

Cook on high for 5-6 hours or low for 10-12 hours until tender. Ensure they simmer afterward for better consistency.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delightful blend of flavors that enhance any meal. They’re perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables to make it your own!

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