These Cowboy Beans are a classic, hearty dish packed with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. Filled with ground beef, bacon, and a variety of beans, these beans make the perfect side for barbecues, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. With a rich, barbecue-like sauce, they’re guaranteed to satisfy and can easily be made in a skillet or slow cooker. Let’s dive into this comforting and easy recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Cowboy Beans
- Instructions for Cowboy Beans
- Cooking Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Cowboy Beans
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pork and beans (undrained)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions for Cowboy Beans
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
Step 3: Combine the Beans and Sauce
- Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, and pork and beans to the skillet. Stir in the ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the Beans
- Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Serve
- Stir in the crispy bacon just before serving. Serve the Cowboy Beans warm as a side dish or a main course with crusty bread.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Slow Cooker Option: After browning the bacon, ground beef, and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the beans, sauces, and seasonings, then cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the brown sugar to your taste. Add a bit more if you prefer sweeter beans or reduce if you like them less sweet.
- Use Different Beans: You can mix and match the types of beans based on what you have on hand—cannellini beans or great northern beans also work well.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and ground beef and add more types of beans or meatless crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Cowboy Beans: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Maple Beans: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Cowboy Beans ahead of time?
Yes! Cowboy Beans taste even better the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Can I freeze Cowboy Beans?
Absolutely. Allow the beans to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. What can I serve with Cowboy Beans?
Cowboy Beans are perfect with barbecued meats, cornbread, coleslaw, or even on their own as a hearty main dish.
4. Can I use canned beans with no added salt?
Yes, using no salt added canned beans is a great way to control the sodium content of the dish. Adjust the salt to your preference.
These Cowboy Beans are a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. With smoky bacon, tender beans, and a delicious sauce, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you make them on the stovetop or in the slow cooker, these beans will fill your home with warmth and incredible aromas. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy the hearty goodness!
Happy cooking, and enjoy these delicious Cowboy Beans!
