Are you craving a comforting, flavorful side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this elevated take on a classic: Bush's Bourbon Baked Beans! This recipe transforms humble baked beans into a sweet, smoky, and deeply satisfying culinary experience, perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 (15-ounce) cans Bush's Best Baked Beans (original or your favorite variety)
- 1/4 cup bourbon (optional, substitute with apple cider or water for a non-alcoholic version)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped bacon (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using bacon, cook it until crispy and set aside, reserving the bacon grease.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized oven-safe casserole dish or Dutch oven, combine the Bush's baked beans, bourbon (or substitute), brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper. If using onion and/or bacon, add them now. If using bacon grease, add 1 tablespoon to the beans.
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Bake: Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes.
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Uncover & Finish: Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are bubbly and slightly thickened. If you prefer a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
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Serve & Enjoy: Let the beans cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious on their own, alongside grilled meats, or as part of a hearty barbecue feast.
Tips for the Best Bourbon Baked Beans:
- Bean Variety: Experiment with different varieties of Bush's baked beans to find your favorite flavor profile. The original is a great starting point!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little extra kick.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking. Some prefer a sweeter bean, while others like a more savory profile.
- Make it Ahead: These beans taste even better the next day! Prepare them ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of bourbon for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Twist: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce for extra smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. It's always a good idea to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 7-9g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Fiber: Approximately 8-10g
This Bush's Bourbon Baked Beans recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!