Crock Pot Cowboy BBQ Beans are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Loaded with ground beef, bacon, and a mix of beans, this slow-cooked dish is hearty enough to be a main course or the perfect side for any BBQ. With minimal prep time and easy ingredients, this dish is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any day you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 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) baked beans (do not drain)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Cook the Meat
- Brown Ground Beef and Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
- Add to Crock Pot: Transfer the cooked ground beef, onion, and garlic mixture to the crock pot. Add the cooked bacon, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, and baked beans.
- Add Sauces and Seasonings: Stir in the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined.
Cook the Beans
- Slow Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve
- Serve Warm: Once the beans are heated through and flavorful, serve them warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- BBQ Sauce Choice: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to add a personal touch. A smoky or spicy BBQ sauce works well in this recipe.
- Bacon Tip: Cooking the bacon until crispy adds a nice texture to the beans, but you can also use pre-cooked bacon to save time.
- Bean Variety: Feel free to mix and match different types of beans depending on what you have on hand. Cannellini beans or great northern beans are good substitutes.
Variations
- Spicy Cowboy Beans: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and ground beef, and add more beans or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Sweet and Tangy Beans: Add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
- With Cornbread: Serve these cowboy beans with warm cornbread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- BBQ Feast: Pair with grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers for a complete BBQ meal.
- Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beans just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make these cowboy beans ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the crock pot or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Cowboy BBQ Beans?
Yes, these beans freeze well. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I Use Canned Meat?
If you’re short on time, you can use canned beef or even smoked sausage instead of cooking ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What Type of Beans Should I Use?
You can use any combination of beans you like. Pinto, kidney, black, and baked beans work well, but you can also add great northern beans or cannellini beans for variety.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
Crock Pot Cowboy BBQ Beans are a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or potlucks. With tender beans, smoky bacon, and a rich BBQ sauce, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a main course, it’s comforting, easy to make, and always a hit. Gather your ingredients, set up your crock pot, and enjoy this delicious cowboy classic!
Happy Cooking!