These Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans are a tasty mix of sweet apples and crispy bacon. The bourbon adds a rich and smoky flavor, making them perfect for any BBQ or cozy dinner!
Trust me, bacon makes everything better! I love serving these beans alongside grilled meats. It’s like a party in your mouth—so good you might want to keep it all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Navy Beans: These small beans are perfect for absorbing flavors. If you don’t have navy beans, you can use pinto beans or great northern beans instead. Canned beans save time—just rinse them well!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds flavor and texture. You can substitute turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian version—just add some olive oil for richness.
Apple: Granny Smith apples add tartness, but you could use any firm apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji. If you’re looking for a sweeter twist, try a closer-to-sweet variety.
Bourbon: This adds a smoky depth. If you prefer not to use alcohol, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few drops of liquid smoke can provide a similar taste.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient is key for smokiness. If you can’t find it, regular paprika and a dash of cayenne can work in a pinch. Just be careful with the heat!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Beans?
To maximize flavor, focus on building layers. Start with cooking the bacon to release its fat, which you’ll use to sauté your onion. This simple step creates a great base.
- After cooking bacon, sauté onions in the same pan. It’s all about using those tasty bacon drippings!
- When adding the bourbon, let it simmer a little to cook off the alcohol—that way, you get the smoky flavor without the strong taste of liquor.
- Mix in your beans gently so they don’t break apart. You want each bean to be coated in that delicious sauce!
- Give the mixture some time in the oven to meld the flavors. Covering the dish allows the steam to help everything come together nicely.
Follow these easy insights and techniques, and you’ll have delicious smoky bourbon baked beans ready to impress! Enjoy!
How to Make Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans with Apples and Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 cups cooked navy beans or 2 (15 oz) cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water or apple juice (to adjust consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 1 hour for baking, totaling approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. This includes cooking the bacon, sautéing the veggies, mixing everything together, and letting it bake to perfection. Perfect for a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and ready for your beans once they’re mixed!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain the excess fat. Don’t toss out that tasty bacon fat—we’ll use it for flavor!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and diced apples, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apples start to soften.
4. Add the Bourbon:
Now it’s time to add the bourbon. Carefully pour it into the skillet (remember to stand back in case it flames up!), and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol cooks off and the liquid reduces slightly.
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne (if you like a bit of heat), and salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smelling heavenly!
6. Combine with Beans:
Add the cooked or canned navy beans to the mixture. Gently stir to coat the beans in that flavorful sauce. If it looks too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or apple juice to loosen it up a bit.
7. Add Bacon and Bake:
Stir in half of the crispy bacon pieces, saving the rest for garnishing later. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid or some aluminum foil, and pop it in the preheated oven to bake for about 1 hour. This step lets all those wonderful flavors meld together.
8. Finish and Serve:
When the hour is up, take the beans out of the oven, give them a good stir, and sprinkle the remaining crispy bacon on top. Serve them hot as a hearty side dish to your grilled meats or enjoy them straight from the bowl!
Enjoy your smoky, sweet, savory baked beans featuring a delightful hint of bourbon and crispy bacon bits. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Absolutely! Canned navy beans are a great shortcut. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the recipe. They’ll save you time without sacrificing flavor!
Is There a Substitution for Bourbon?
If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar for tang, or a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor without the alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If they seem a bit thick, add a splash of water or apple juice when reheating!
Can I Make These Baked Beans Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight!