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Beautifully rich with sweet, smoky, and savory flavor in every bite, this is the ultimate baked beans with bacon recipe! Featuring tender beans mingling with smoky bacon in a glossy brown sugar and bourbon-infused BBQ sauce—this truly is baked beans at their absolute best! Instructions for canned and dried beans, plus oven, slow cooker, and stove-top cooking included.

“Delicious! I used a little vanilla, didn’t have Bourbon but used Rum. Great smokey taste.”

– Diana
Action photo of bbq beans with bacon in a large white pot with a wood serving spoon lifting up the beans.

Update: This recipe was originally published in June 2015. I made a few tweaks to the recipe, along with a few updates the article below to include more information about making this easy baked beans recipe with bacon and bourbon at home.

Hi, friends! Today I’m sharing a recipe for the most magically-delicious fruit. 😉 Because really, no summer is complete without some epic barbecued beans. While canned BBQ beans are super convenient, they just can’t compete with the complex sweet, savory, and smoky flavors found in this baked bean recipe:

Table of Contents

About these baked beans with bacon

Is there anything better than the aroma a of big, bubbling pot of baked beans with bacon? I’m talking sweet, smoky, and perfectly sticky BBQ beans that practically melt in your mouth. This isn’t your average baked beans recipe, friend. This irresistible recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a bean masterpiece! And it’ll make your kitchen smell like a Southern smokehouse—in the best way possible. 

Think: creamy beans, mingling with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar, bold bourbon, aromatic veggies, and barbecue staples like ketchup and rich molasses,  these BBQ beans are a full-blown party for your tastebuds.

Bonus: this recipe is like a choose-your-own-adventure for BBQ bacon beans. You can use dried beans or canned beans, make them in the oven, a slow cooker or crock pot, and slow cook them on the stove. Regardless how you make them, these whiskey-infused brown sugar baked beans with bacon are going to be absolutely delicious!

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want a magical side dish for your next weeknight dinner, this baked beans recipe is guaranteed to win all hearts and bellies around your table.

Why you will love this recipe

  • Unbeatable BBQ Flavor. The trifecta of sweet brown sugar, smooth bourbon, and a plethora of bacon creates a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce that’s beautifully flavorful. 
  • Perfect Texture. Soft, creamy beans meet crispy, salty bacon, what’s not to love?
  • Any Beans You Like. You can use traditional white navy beans (haricot beans) or switch it up and use pinto, great northern, and more. And this bacon bean recipe includes instructions for using either canned beans or dried beans, depending upon your preference.
  • “Bake” The Beans YOUR Way! Making this bacon beans recipe is truly as easy as you’d like. “Bake” them in the oven, slow cooker, crockpot, or on the stove.  
  • UNIQUE Recipe. When I originally posted this recipe back in 2015 there weren’t any recipes that looked remotely similar. Unfortunately, there’s now countless rip-off variations with no credit given. By making this bbq beans with bacon recipe you’ll be supporting the original creator. 

recipe testimonials!

Here’s what some readers are saying about these tried and true Bacon Baked Beans.

  • “Love this recipe! I omitted the green peppers because I hate them, probably would have been okay in this recipe but social distancing!” – Danielle
  • “Amazing flavor! I didn’t have bourbon, so I used whiskey.” – Dangle
  • “Made it! Delish! Thank you!” – Nikki
Overhead close-up photo of bacon beans with candied bacon, bourbon and brown sugar.

Ingredients for bbq beans with bacon

  • Bacon: Classic southern-style baked beans are made with bacon for a delicious smokey and slightly salty flavor. However, you can omit the bacon to make these beans vegetarian.
  • Navy Beans: You can use dried or pre-cooked canned beans in this recipe. Dried beans result in the best texture and taste. However, canned beans are definitely more convenient. Dried beans will need to be soaked and cooked before you proceed with the recipe. I have included full instructions for both dried and canned beans in the recipe below.
  • Vegetables: Sautéed sweet onion, bell pepper and garlic provide a flavorful base for the beans.
  • Bourbon: Bourbon is slightly sweet with notes of vanilla and caramel. The bourbon enhances all the overall flavor of the beans. Save expensive single-barrel and small-batch bourbons for drinking. Use a regular bourbon such as Jim Beam or Wild Turkey in this recipe. If you want to make these beans without alcohol, use 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract instead.
  • Ketchup: Sweet and tangy ketchup help provide the base for the beans classic barbecue taste.
  • Sugar: Light brown sugar provides a rich sweetness and moist texture. If you prefer a stronger molasses flavor in your beans, feel free to use dark brown sugar instead.
  • Molasses: Thick molasses adds a touch of warm, sweet, somewhat smoky flavor. I recommend a medium or dark molasses for the most robust flavor. However, I avoid blackstrap molasses as it has a distinct bitter flavor.
  • Mustard: Yellow mustard offers the beans a clean, sharp mustard flavor. You can swap out yellow mustard for spicy brown or dijon if you prefer.
  • Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides the perfect tart, dry flavor to balance the sweetness.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: While not a classic ingredient in beans, Worcestershire sauce adds a delicious savory and sweet flavor with a distinct tangy taste.

Recipe variations

  • Candy Bacon Finish. If you’re looking for the ultimate bacon baked beans, garnish the top of the beans generously with brown sugar and maple candied bacon in the oven.
  • Spicy Kick. Stir in chopped chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky-spicy flavor or simply add your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.
  • Vegetarian Swap. Omit the bacon and add a little smoked paprika or coconut bacon for a bit of smoky flavor.
  • Meat Lover’s Dream. Stir in slices of smoked sausage or pulled pork to turn it into a heartier main dish.
  • Maple Bacon Beans. Swap out the bourbon and use maple syrup for a sweeter, booze-free version.
  • Extra Smoky. Give these bbq beans with bacon a smokier flavor with liquid smoke, but just add a dash or two as a little goes a very long way. 
  • Bold BBQ Flavor. If you’re looking for bacon beans with bodacious barbecue flavor, add a little bit of BBQ dry rub seasoning when sautéing the veggies.
Overhead photo of brown sugar and bacon baked beans in a large white pot with a wood serving spoon.

How to make this baked beans recipe with bacon

Preparing these saucy, smoky and sweet beans is a total breeze! This recipe only requires 15 minutes of hands on preparation and can be made in the oven or slow cooker (crockpot) or on the stove. Here’s how:

  1. Partially Cook Bacon. Cook the diced bacon partially through in large pot.
  2. Add Veggies and Aromatics. To the pot with the bacon and bacon grease, add the bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Then cook until the veggies are softened.
  3. Add the Beans and Barbecue Sauce Ingredients. Next, dump in the beans, bourbon, ketchup, sugar, molasses, mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire. Stir to combine and bring the bean mixture to a simmer.
  4. Cook Beans Using Method You Prefer. “Bake” the beans according to your desired method – oven, slow cooker or stove-top. Either cover the beans and continue to cook on the stove-top or transfer beans to a preheated oven. Or, transfer the beans to a slow cooker and cook on low.
  5. Taste and Adjust Beans. Let the beans sit for 5 minutes and then grab a spoon, taste the beans, and adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
  6. Serve Baked Beans with Bacon. Top the baked beans with candy bacon if, using, and enjoy.

Chef expert tips for perfect results every time

  • Use the Right Beans for You. Traditional baked beans are made with white navy beans, but you can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or a mix of beans if you prefer.
  • Cut Bacon Uniformly. Make sure you cut the bacon into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Use Best Cooking Method for You. You can “bake” the beans in the oven, crockpot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop, depending upon your preference.
  • Rest Before Serving. Allow the bacon beans to sit for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking. This gives the beans an opportunity to thicken up and ensures you won’t burn the roof of your mouth.
  • Taste and Adjust. Be sure to give the beans a taste before serving and adjust the flavors to suit your own tastebuds. If your barbecue baked beans aren’t thickened-up to your liking, simply let them simmer, uncovered, until the bbq sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Just make sure you stir occasionally!
  • Garnish with Candy Bacon. If you’re looking for an epic barbecue bean experience, you’re not going to want to skip the garnish of brown sugar candied bacon!

Step-by-step photos: making this recipe at home

If you’re looking for the detailed measurements and full recipe instructions, please scroll down to the bottom of the page. 

Step-by-step photo collage showing how to make baked beans recipe with bacon on the stove-top.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 

Which type of beans should I use?

Navy beans, also known as haricot beans in the U.K, are traditionally used for baked beans. However, you can also use pinto beans or great northern beans if you prefer.

Can I use canned beans?

Absolutely, this baked bean recipe with bacon and brown sugar was developed for using either dried beans or canned beans. If you’re looking for a quick and convenient option, canned beans are for you. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using to make this recipe.

Can I use turkey bacon in brown sugar and bacon baked beans?

Sure! If you’re looking for a more “wholesome” option, turkey bacon works too. Please just note that turkey bacon won’t crisp-up quite the same as pork bacon; however, it will still add delicious flavor.

What do bourbon baked beans taste like?

These saucy bourbon baked beans are the perfect mix of sweet, savory, spicy and smoky flavors with a hearty, meaty taste and an unbelievably tender texture! Not to mention, they are a billion times better tasting than that crap in a can.

While these brown sugar and bacon baked beans are all that jazz in the taste department, they can be made even better for those of you looking for a truly ultimate baked bean experience. How? By adding a generous sprinkling of candied bacon! The sweet crispness of candied bacon takes the flavor to a stratospheric level of yum!

Trust me, you haven’t had epic baked beans until you have had these beans with bacon and brown sugar (and whiskey!)!! So, stop reaching for a can of preservative-filled beans and cook up these easy and ultimately delicious brown sugar and bacon baked beans instead!

Is the bourbon flavor strong?

No—the alcohol cooks off, so you can’t actually taste it. The bourbon simply adds a subtle depth of smooth caramel, vanilla, and oak flavor.

What is the best bourbon to use in bacon beans?

Honestly, the best bourbon to use would be any mid-range brand that you actually like to drink. You don’t need to use a top-shelf bottle, just something that you enjoy sipping. If you’re not sure, you can ask for recommendations at a reputable liquor store.

What’s a good substitute for bourbon?

While I love the smooth, rich flavor the bourbon lends these bacon baked beans, you can absolutely substitute it if needed.

  • Alcohol Substitute: A good substitute for cooking these beans would be dark rum or brandy, particularly cognac.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: If you’re looking for a substitute without any alcohol, a good-quality brand of pure vanilla extract or apple cider vinegar mixed with peach nectar or apple juice make great choices.
Close-up angled photo of baked beans and bacon in a bbq sauce made with brown sugar and bourbon.

Serving brown sugar bacon baked beans

Common Serving Suggestions

Unique Serving Suggestions

Action photo of a spoon lifting baked beans bacon from a pot.

Storing leftovers

Storage instructions

  • Before storing your beans, make sure you allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Once cool, transfer the beans to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freezing instructions

  • Allow leftover bacon baked beans to cool completely to room temperature and then transfer the beans to a freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • To use: Remove the bbq beans from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat according to instructions below.
  • Storage Tip: Make sure you allow the beans to cool, because if you freeze beans while they are still hot you run the risk of them expanding and possibly breaking the container. Also, make sure you leave a little bit of space at the top of the container to account for the expansion. Gently push down on any floating pieces of bacon to ensure they are covered by the sauce (this will prevent the meat from drying out).

Reheating instructions

You can reheat the brown sugar and bacon beans on the stovetop or in the oven or microwave, depending upon your preference:

  • The oven: Transfer the beans to an oven-safe container, cover the container with aluminum foil, and bake in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F for 18-20 minutes, or until their internal temperature is 165 degrees F.
  • The stovetop: Transfer the leftover baked beans with bacon to a sauce pot and reheat them over medium to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 10-12 minutes.
Close-up action photo of a spoon scooping brown sugar baked beans with bacon from a bowl.

Cozy, comforting, and bursting with deliciously bold BBQ flavor, these southern baked beans with bacon, brown sugar, and bourbon are everything a side dish SHOULD be—easy to make, endlessly customizable, impossible to resist, and perfect for sharing! I hope you give this recipe a try and don’t forget to share your results in the comments of tag me on social media.

Cheers and happy cooking, friends! 

Cheyanne

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More hearty bean side dishes!

Close-up photo of a wooden spoon stirring baked beans with bacon in a large white pot.

Baked Beans Recipe with Bacon

4.89 from 18 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Beautifully rich with sweet, smoky, and savory flavor in every bite, this is the ultimate baked beans with bacon recipe! Featuring tender beans mingling with smoky bacon in a glossy brown sugar and bourbon-infused BBQ sauce—this truly is baked beans at their absolute best! Instructions for canned and dried beans, plus oven, slow cooker, and stove-top cooking included.

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Slow Cooker or Crockpot (OPTIONAL)
  • 1 Large Rimmed Baking Sheet (OPTIONAL)

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • Partially Cook Bacon: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes, or until the bacon is partially cooked through.
  • Add Veggies and Aromatics: To the pot, add the onions and bell peppers, then season generously with salt and pepper.
    Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened, about 4-5 minutes.
    Add in the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the bacon is browned, about 1 minute.
  • Add Beans and BBQ Sauce Ingredients: To the pot, add the beans, bourbon, ketchup, sugar, molasses, mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
    If using the slow cooker, add 1/2 cup of hot water or broth. All other cooking methods, add 1 cup of hot water or broth to the pot.
    Season generously with salt and pepper and then give the beans and barbecue sauce a good stir and make sure the ingredients are well combined.
  • Oven Cooking Instructions: Bring the beans to a simmer and then immediately cover with a tight fitting lid.
    Transfer the beans to an oven preheated to 300 degree F oven—make sure oven rack is set to lower-middle position.
    Bake the beans for 45 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking.
    Remove the lid, stir, and transfer the beans back to the oven. Continue to bake until the sauce is thickened and sticky, about an additional 30-45 minutes. If needed during baking, add more water to adjust the sauce consistency.
    (Note: While the beans are slow cooking, make the candied bacon, let it cool and chop it into bite size pieces – if using.)
  • Stove-Top Cooking Instructions: Bring the beans to a simmer and then immediately cover with a tight fitting lid.
    Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer—between medium to medium-low heat on most cooking elements.
    Let the bbq beans simmer, stirring at every 30-minute interval, for 1 ½ hours, or until the sauce is thickened and sticky.
    (Note: While the beans are slow cooking, make the candied bacon, let it cool and chop it into bite size pieces – if using.)
  • Slow Cooker and Crockpot Cooking Instructions: (Make sure you reduced water to ½ cup in step 2.) Transfer the baked bean mixture to the slow cooker or crockpot.
    Cover the cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours, or until the beans are tender and the bbq sauce is sticky.
    (Note: While the beans are slow cooking, make the candied bacon, let it cool and chop it into bite size pieces – if using.)
  • Serve Baked Beans with Bacon: Let the beans rest for 5-10 minutes and then taste beans and adjust for salt and pepper to suit your tastebuds.
    Transfer to a large serving bowl and scatter the top generously with candied bacon and fresh parsley, if using. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • Beans. You can substitute any kind of beans you would like: Northern, Pinto, Red Kidney Beans, or use a mix of two!
    • Dried Beans: If you’d like to use dry beans to make this recipe, you definitely can! You’ll need 1 pound of dried, soaked, and cooked beans.
  • Cooking Bacon. If your bacon is lean, add a small drizzle of oil to the pan before adding the bacon.
  • Thickening Beans. If the beans aren’t thickened and sticky, continue to cook them with the lid OFF until mixture thickens to desired consistency.
  • If you want to cook the beans in the oven AND garnish with candied bacon, cook the candied bacon in advance. It will keep in a zip-closure bag, or container with a tight fitting lid, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Recipe Yield: Roughly 10 cups
  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 12 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 261kcal    Carbohydrates: 25g    Protein: 4g    Fat: 11g    Saturated Fat: 4g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g    Monounsaturated Fat: 5g    Trans Fat: 0.04g    Cholesterol: 19mg    Sodium: 424mg    Potassium: 326mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 22g    Vitamin A: 139IU    Vitamin C: 8mg    Calcium: 42mg    Iron: 1mg
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

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