Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds! Our Slow Cooker Savory Baked Beans are not just a recipe, they're a culinary adventure that combines smoky bacon, sweet barbecue sauce, and perfectly tender navy beans. Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked comfort food that practically makes itself. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, planning a cozy family dinner, or just craving a delicious homestyle dish, these baked beans will become your new go-to recipe that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced bacon
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining and rinsing the navy beans, dicing the bacon, and finely chopping the onion.
- In a large slow cooker, combine the drained navy beans, chopped bacon, and diced onion.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and mustard until well blended.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and bacon in the slow cooker, stirring gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to distribute the seasoning.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting.
- Cook for 8 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- About halfway through cooking, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more brown sugar or mustard for enhanced flavor.
- When cooking is complete, the beans should be tender and the sauce thick and glossy.
- Let the beans rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to further thicken.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main course, garnishing with optional fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Use high-quality bacon for the best smoky flavor - thick-cut bacon works exceptionally well.
- Choose a robust barbecue sauce that complements the beans' richness.
- Stir the beans occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.
- If the sauce seems too thin, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to help it reduce and thicken.
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few drops of liquid smoke.
- Don't rush the cooking process - slow and low is the key to developing rich, complex flavors.
- These beans taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance.
- Experiment with different types of beans like great northern or pinto for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
