Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with a dish that’s not just a side, but a star on its own! Introducing the Cozy BBQ Buddy Smoky Bourbon Baked Beans – a tantalizing blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that will have your guests begging for the recipe. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish transforms humble navy beans into a rich and delicious masterpiece that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these baked beans are sure to steal the show. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to impress with this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is in the middle position for even heating.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onions over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the drained and rinsed navy beans to the skillet with the softened onions.
- Pour in the BBQ sauce, bourbon, and brown sugar, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika over the bean mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
- Transfer the covered beans to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
- After the initial cooking time, remove the lid or foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to caramelize and thicken slightly.
- Remove from the oven and let the beans rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to further intensify.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with optional fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Bourbon: The type of bourbon you use can significantly influence the flavor of your baked beans. Opt for a mid-range bourbon that you enjoy sipping for the best results.
- Customize Your BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to match your taste preferences. A tangy sauce can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Add a Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions; letting them caramelize slightly will add depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
- Resting Time is Key: Allow the baked beans to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing them from the oven. This will help the sauce thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile when serving.
- Make Ahead: These baked beans can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving, allowing the flavors to deepen even further!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 196kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 7g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
