Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them the perfect addition to any BBQ or holiday gathering. These beans are rich with brown sugar, molasses, and the bold essence of bourbon and bacon. Their hearty nature ensures they’ll be a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it, letting the crockpot do all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The infusion of bourbon and bacon creates a deep, smoky flavor that elevates traditional baked beans.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or even as a comforting side dish during winter gatherings.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these beans in advance, making them ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe serves 9-12 people, ensuring there’s plenty to go around at your next event.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, you’ll need the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for cooking the beans evenly while allowing flavors to meld over hours.
• Large pot: Ideal for soaking and boiling the beans before transferring them to the slow cooker.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning bacon and sautéing onions and garlic to enhance their 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)
• 2 cups chicken stock

For the Sauce

• 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: Brown the Bacon

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

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 garlic and cook an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pot

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 before pouring into the crockpot.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together in Crockpot

Add crisp bacon along with 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 for even cooking.

Step 6: Let Simmer Before Serving

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

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are versatile and can elevate any meal. They pair well with a variety of dishes, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or family dinners.

At a BBQ

• BBQ Ribs: The smokiness of the ribs complements the rich flavors in the beans.
• Grilled Chicken: A light and juicy chicken dish balances the heartiness of the baked beans.

As a Side Dish

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the savory beans.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and freshness of coleslaw provide a refreshing counterpoint.

On Their Own

• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread for a simple yet satisfying meal.
• In a Bowl: Top with cheese or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Save it!

How to Perfect Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

To make your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans even better, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the flavors significantly.
• Let Them Sit: Allow the beans to rest after cooking; they will thicken and develop deeper flavors.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste before serving; you can add more brown sugar or maple syrup if desired.
• Experiment with Bourbon: Different bourbons offer unique flavor profiles; choose one you enjoy drinking!
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking throughout.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans shine when paired with other delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned veggies add color and nutrition, making your meal balanced.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements the savory taste of baked beans perfectly.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food pairs well with the rich flavors of the beans.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those delicious beans.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes: Their tartness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the beans.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with grains or meat can be a filling addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak your navy beans to ensure they become tender.
• Using low-quality bacon: Selecting inferior bacon can affect the flavor of your dish. Choose high-quality applewood smoked bacon for the best taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary based on your crockpot. Keep an eye on the beans; they should be tender but not mushy.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings like BBQ sauce or molasses as needed during cooking.
• Not letting it sit after cooking: Allowing the beans to sit after cooking helps thicken the sauce. Patience is key for optimal flavor and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow beans to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place beans in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer beans to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans vegetarian?

You can replace bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a smoky flavor without meat. Adjust chicken stock with vegetable broth too!

Can I use canned beans instead?

Yes, you can use canned navy beans if short on time. Rinse and drain them before adding them to the crockpot along with other ingredients.

What can I serve with Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

These baked beans pair well with grilled meats, cornbread, or even as part of a picnic spread with salads and rolls.

How spicy are these baked beans?

The recipe is mild but you can add hot sauce or diced jalapeños if you prefer extra heat!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delicious addition to any meal, bringing rich flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect for gatherings or just a comforting meal at home. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or adjusting the sweetness!