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Savory Honey Bourbon Baked Beans Recipe with Crispy Bacon

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A quick and easy baked beans recipe featuring a sweet honey bourbon glaze and crispy bacon, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. This dish balances sweet, smoky, and hearty flavors with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) navy beans or preferred variety, drained and rinsed
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (applewood smoked recommended)
  • 1/4 cup (85 g) raw or wildflower honey
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving rendered fat in skillet.
  3. Add chopped onion to skillet with bacon fat and cook over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, brown sugar, and smoked paprika; cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Pour in bourbon, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and alcohol scent mellows.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained beans with bacon-onion mixture and honey bourbon glaze. Mix gently but thoroughly to coat beans.
  7. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle reserved crispy bacon pieces on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, stirring gently halfway through baking to mix bacon topping without breaking beans.
  9. Let baked beans cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow glaze to set.

Notes

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen. Stir halfway through baking to coat beans evenly and distribute bacon topping. Use a sturdy baking dish for even cooking. For vegetarian version, omit bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke. Substitute bourbon with whiskey, brandy, or strong brewed coffee for non-alcoholic option.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked beans, honey bourbon glaze, crispy bacon, easy side dish, comfort food, quick recipe, savory beans

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/savory-honey-bourbon-baked-beans-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-easy-and-perfect/