Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors that perfectly complement any gathering. These beans boast the rich essence of bourbon and crispy bacon, making them a standout side dish for BBQs, potlucks, and holiday picnics. With minimal effort required, you can serve a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal active cooking time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, molasses, and bourbon creates a uniquely delicious taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter gathering, these beans are suitable for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its savory and sweet notes, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Slow-Cooked Goodness: Allowing the flavors to meld in a crockpot ensures every bite is full of robust flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over several hours.
• Large pot: Perfect for soaking and boiling the beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning bacon and caramelizing onions, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans require a few key ingredients that come together beautifully.

Beans

• 1 lb. dry navy beans (soaked overnight)

Meat & Vegetables

• 12 oz applewood smoked bacon (chopped)
• 1 sweet onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids & Sauces

• 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 & 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: Brown the Bacon

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

Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic

Add onions to pan with bacon grease and cook on medium heat until beginning to caramelize, about 15 minutes. Add garlic and cook 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 crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 10-12 hours. Stir occasionally.

Step 6: Thicken the Beans

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

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

How to Serve Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are a deliciously rich side dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these beans can elevate your meal. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this hearty dish.

As a Side for Grilled Meats

• BBQ Ribs – The sweetness of the beans complements smoky BBQ ribs perfectly.
• Grilled Chicken – Add a savory touch to your grilled chicken with these flavorful beans.
• Steaks – The robust flavors of bacon and bourbon enhance any steak dinner.

In a Bean Bowl

• Rice Base – Serve over rice for a filling bean bowl, topped with fresh herbs.
• Tortilla Chips – Scoop up the beans with crispy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.

With Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – Melt cheese over the top for a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the beans.

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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, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak the Beans Overnight – This helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time significantly.
• Use Quality Bourbon – A good quality bourbon enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• Adjust Sweetness – Taste before serving; you can add more brown sugar or maple syrup if desired.
• Stir Occasionally – Stirring helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking throughout.
• Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the beans to sit for a bit helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are versatile and pair well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside.

1. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the rich beans.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
3. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad balances out the meal with its cool texture.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese makes for an indulgent pairing with baked beans.
6. Garden Salad – A light salad can help cut through the richness of the dish, providing balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes that could affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak your navy beans for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly.

• Using Low-Quality Bourbon: Choosing a low-quality bourbon can diminish the overall flavor of your baked beans. Opt for a decent brand that you enjoy drinking for the best results.

• Overcooking Bacon: Cooking bacon too long before adding it to the crockpot can make it overly crispy and less flavorful. Aim for crisp but not burnt bacon, as it will continue to cook in the slow cooker.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Each BBQ sauce has its own level of sweetness and spice. Taste your mixture before cooking and adjust the spices or sweeteners according to your preference.

• Not Stirring Occasionally: Leaving the beans unattended in the crockpot may lead to uneven cooking. Stir occasionally, especially if using a high setting, to prevent sticking and burning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Freeze beans in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place beans in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer beans to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour beans into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of beans for Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans?

Yes! You can substitute navy beans with other varieties like pinto or black beans, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

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

These baked beans are perfect as a side dish alongside grilled meats, burgers, or even cornbread at BBQs and picnics.

Is it necessary to add bourbon?

While bourbon enhances the flavor significantly, you can omit it if desired. Just replace it with additional chicken stock for moisture.

How do I know when my baked beans are done?

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans should be tender and creamy when fully cooked. Test them by tasting; they should not be hard or crunchy.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Bacon-Bourbon Baked Beans are an irresistible dish that combines sweet and smoky flavors, making them perfect for any gathering. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding extra spices or swapping out ingredients based on your preferences. Whether it’s a family BBQ or holiday feast, these baked beans are sure to impress!