Smoked Baked Beans (With Optional Bourbon) Recipe
Your summer barbecue party isn't complete without a side of these smoked baked beans! After cooking low and slow in the most incredible BBQ sauce with loads of bacon, these baked beans balance just the right spicy, sweet and smoky notes. You'll never go back to canned baked beans after one bite.

How to Make the Best Smoked Baked Beans (With Optional Bourbon)
These smoked baked beans are the ultimate barbecue side dish. Slow-cooked with bacon and a homemade BBQ sauce that balances sweet, spicy, and smoky notes, they’re the perfect complement to any grilled main course. Unlike canned baked beans, this recipe delivers rich, complex flavors that elevate your entire meal.
The secret is cooking them low and slow—whether in a smoker or a covered baking dish in the oven. The bacon adds richness, while the BBQ sauce creates that beautiful caramelized coating. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of bourbon adds an extra layer of sophistication without being overpowering.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or a casual backyard gathering, these smoked baked beans will become a signature dish your guests request every time. Serve them alongside ribs, brisket, or pulled pork for the ultimate barbecue experience.

Smoked Baked Beans (With Optional Bourbon)
Your summer barbecue party isn't complete without a side of these smoked baked beans! After cooking low and slow in the most incredible BBQ sauce with loads of bacon, these baked beans balance just the right spicy, sweet and smoky notes. You'll never go back to canned baked beans after one bite.
Ingredients
Main
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crispy, then chop and set aside.
- In a baking dish, combine baked beans with BBQ sauce.
- Add bourbon if desired, and stir in bacon.
- Cover and bake low and slow in a smoker or oven until flavors meld.
Notes
- This recipe works best when cooked low and slow in a smoker for authentic flavor.
- The bourbon is optional but adds an extra layer of depth to the sauce.