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Flavorful Smoky Baked Beans Recipe with Brown Sugar and Whiskey Made Easy

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A rich and comforting baked beans recipe infused with smoky bacon, brown sugar caramelization, and a subtle warmth from whiskey. Perfect for barbecues and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) canned navy beans, drained and rinsed
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped (or turkey bacon for leaner option)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/3 cup (70 g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) whiskey (recommend good-quality bourbon like Maker’s Mark)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water or low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and leave the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in smoked paprika, dry mustard powder, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the onions and garlic in spices.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, tomato paste, whiskey, apple cider vinegar, and water or chicken broth until smooth.
  6. Add the rinsed navy beans and cooked bacon to the skillet with the aromatics. Pour the brown sugar-whiskey mixture over everything and stir gently to combine.
  7. Pour the entire mixture into your oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The sauce should thicken and become glossy, coating the beans beautifully.
  9. Carefully take out the dish, taste, and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  10. Let the beans cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle and thicken a bit more.

Notes

For a thicker glaze, bake an extra 10 minutes or broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to caramelize the top. For vegetarian version, omit bacon and add 1 teaspoon liquid smoke. Stir halfway through baking to prevent sticking and ensure even coating. Use a good-quality bourbon for best flavor. Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days refrigerated or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoky baked beans, brown sugar baked beans, whiskey baked beans, southern comfort food, barbecue side dish, easy baked beans recipe

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/flavorful-smoky-baked-beans-recipe-with-brown-sugar-and-whiskey-made-easy/