Why This Recipe Works

What makes these Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans with Apples and Bacon truly special? First, it’s the remarkable balance of sweetness and smokiness that keeps you coming back for more. The addition of bacon and bourbon introduces an umami-rich flavor that elevates these beans to next-level deliciousness. Plus, taking the time to bake them slowly not only deepens the flavors but also enhances the texture, creating a dish that’s both comforting and unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans with Apples and Bacon

You’ll fall in love with these beans because they are the ultimate comfort food. They’re an excellent choice for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. The recipe is flexible, allowing for simple ingredients that you may already have on hand. The inviting mix of savory and sweet flavors will undoubtedly captivate everyone at the table.

Ingredients

6 slices (220 grams) thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 cup (140 grams) finely diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
1 cup (125 grams) diced Honeycrisp or Gala apple (about 1 medium apple)
2 cloves (about 2 teaspoons) minced garlic
¼ cup (66 grams) double-concentrated tomato paste
1 teaspoon (2 grams) smoked paprika
½ teaspoon (3 grams) salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon (1 gram) chili powder
¼ teaspoon (0.5 gram) black pepper
2 cans (30 ounces total) navy or pinto beans, undrained (15 ounces each)
⅓ cup (80 ml) bourbon
¼ cup (55 grams) packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons (30 ml) maple syrup
2 teaspoons (10 ml) Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
Diced green onions (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Preheat and Cook Bacon

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet, saucepan, or Dutch oven and add the chopped bacon. Cook it over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside. Be sure to leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan for flavor.

Sauté Onions and Apples

Next, toss in the diced onion and apple into that flavorful bacon grease. Sauté these over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring often, until they become softened and lightly golden. The smell will start to fill your kitchen!

Add Garlic and Spices

Now, stir in your minced garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, chili powder, and black pepper. Give it another minute of cooking to let the spices release their aroma—trust me, this part is heavenly.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Once the spices are fragrant, add in the navy or pinto beans, bourbon, brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil before moving to the next step.

Bake the Beans

Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, move the mixture to a baking dish instead. Cover it tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 60-90 minutes. Make sure to stir every 20-30 minutes. For the last 30 minutes, remove the lid. If at any point the beans look too dry, you can stir in up to ¼ cup of water.

Final Touches

For an optional yet delicious finish, you may broil the beans for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce. Before serving, top with the remaining bacon and diced green onions, if you like.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans with Apples and Bacon is a joy. They pair perfectly with grilled meats, making a delightful addition to any barbecue spread. Additionally, serving them alongside cornbread or crusty bread creates a cozy meal that will warm you up.

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, always use high-quality bourbon.
Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste buds.
If you can, make this dish a day ahead. The flavors deepen as they sit, and all you need to do is reheat before serving.

Variations

Want to mix it up? You can substitute maple syrup with honey for a different type of sweetness. If you like heat, consider adding jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also switch things up with different types of beans, like black or kidney beans, to add variety.

Storage Tips

Leftover Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing Ideas

For a refreshing crunch, consider serving them alongside a side of coleslaw. If you prefer something to sip, a light, fruity wine will balance that delightful smokiness beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute navy beans with pinto, kidney, or black beans.

Is there a non-alcoholic version?

Yes, replacing bourbon with apple cider or vegetable broth will work beautifully, giving a similar effect without the alcohol.

How do I enhance the smokiness?

If you crave more smokiness, adding a bit more smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can do the trick.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for that slow-cooked goodness.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Reheat on the stove or microwave and enjoy them as is, or layer on a baked potato for a tasty twist!