There’s something about the smell of Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans wafting through the house that makes even the most skeptical of eaters weak in the knees. Picture this: a rich, sweet aroma merging with hints of smoky bourbon, teasing your taste buds and beckoning you to dig in. crockpot sweet chili meatballs These beans are not just an ordinary side dish; they’re a flavor-packed experience that can turn any gathering into a feast. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, they promise to steal the show.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
- What type of bourbon works best?
- Can I make these baked beans vegetarian?
- 📖 Recipe Card
And let me tell you, every time I make these delightful beans, I’m reminded of that one memorable family picnic where everyone devoured them before I could even snap a photo. Friends and family alike rave about how their hearts—and stomachs—are won over by the sweet yet tangy notes. Cuban-style black beans You’ll want to keep this recipe close because once you serve them, they’ll become the star of every occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delicious Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans offer an effortless way to impress guests without breaking a sweat
- The harmony of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that brightens up any gathering
- Plus, they look stunning in rustic serving bowls, making them visually appealing on your dinner table
- Adaptable for various occasions, these beans fit perfectly with grilled meats or even as a stand-alone dish
I still remember my cousin’s reaction when I brought these beans to her potluck; she practically tackled me for the recipe!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Canned Navy Beans: These tender beans are perfect for soaking up all that bourbon goodness.
Brown Sugar: Use light or dark brown sugar for sweetness and depth; it’s the secret weapon here.
Bourbon: Choose your favorite brand; it adds warmth and complexity to the dish.
Onion: A fresh onion gives an aromatic base that enhances flavor with its sweetness when cooked down.
Ketchup: This classic condiment adds a hint of tanginess and balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Dijon Mustard: A touch of mustard adds zing and complements the other flavors beautifully.
Bacon or Pancetta: For those who enjoy extra richness, bacon adds savory depth that elevates this dish to new heights.
Garlic Powder: Use garlic powder for a subtle garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish. slow cooker garlic beef bites. garlic sweet potato mash.
Black Pepper and Salt: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Crockpot: Start by plugging in your trusty crockpot and setting it to low heat. This will get things rolling while you gather your ingredients.
Mix Those Beans!: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained navy beans, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is coated with love.
Add Aromatics and Bacon: Dice up that onion and chop bacon or pancetta into small pieces. Toss them into the bean mixture for an aromatic explosion.
Transfer to Crockpot: Carefully pour your flavorful bean mixture into the crockpot. Spread it evenly as if you’re tucking them into bed for a long nap.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover your crockpot and let those flavors meld together on low heat for 6-8 hours or until everything is bubbly and deliciously fragrant.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once done cooking, give those beans a quick stir before serving them warm alongside your favorite grilled meats or as a hearty stand-alone treat.
Now go ahead and enjoy those wonderfully scrumptious Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans! Your taste buds will thank you later! For more inspiration, check out this Crockpot Chicken Breast recipe.
You Must Know
- The secret to perfect Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans lies in the balance of sweetness and smokiness
- Allowing the beans to cook slowly enhances their flavor and texture, making them irresistibly delicious
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing any onions or garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This step amplifies flavors. Then, layer your ingredients carefully, ensuring even cooking and distribution of those mouthwatering bourbon and brown sugar notes.

Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out the regular beans for navy or pinto beans for a twist. You can also add crispy bacon or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Personalizing this dish makes it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on low heat in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water if they appear dry to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked beans, soak them overnight; this reduces cooking time significantly
- Always taste and adjust sweetness level based on personal preference before serving
- If you’re short on time, canned beans work well too; just rinse thoroughly before use
Making these Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans was a game-changer at our family BBQ last summer when my uncle couldn’t stop raving about them—his excitement was contagious!
FAQ
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but soak dried beans overnight for best results before cooking.
What type of bourbon works best?
Any smooth bourbon will enhance flavor; choose one you enjoy sipping.
Can I make these baked beans vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a veggie version.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crockpot Bourbon Brown Sugar Baked Beans are the ultimate blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Perfect for barbecues or family dinners, this dish transforms ordinary baked beans into a show-stopping side. The aroma of bourbon and brown sugar fills your home, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Easy to prepare in a slow cooker, these beans promise to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 3 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 6 slices bacon or pancetta, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Plug in your crockpot and set it to low heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine navy beans, brown sugar, bourbon, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Add diced onion and chopped bacon or pancetta to the bean mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and spread evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until bubbly and fragrant.
- Stir before serving warm alongside grilled meats or as a standalone dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg






