Description
Cowboy Beans
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, diced
2 cans (15 oz) baked beans
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels. Crumble and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In the same skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the baked beans, pinto beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder.
Add the cooked beef and half of the crumbled bacon.
Bake
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with the remaining bacon.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until bubbly.
Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or main course!
Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a hearty family dinner!
#CowboyBeans #ComfortFood #BBQSideDish
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect Cowboy Beans every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to paper towels, crumble, and set aside. In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, cook the diced onion and ground beef over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat. In your largest mixing bowl, combine the baked beans, drained pinto beans, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder. Stir in the cooked beef-onion mixture and half of the crumbled bacon. Pour this bean mixture into your prepared baking dish and top evenly with the remaining bacon. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are hot, thick, and bubbly around the edges. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, Cowboy Beans can be the star of a full meal. Serve it as a hearty main course with a side of cornbread or fluffy biscuits to soak up the sauce. For a classic BBQ plate, pair it with grilled chicken, smoked ribs, or hamburgers. Top individual servings with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook and crumble bacon. Brown beef and onion in the bacon fat. Mix all bean ingredients, beef, and half the bacon in a bowl. Transfer to a dish, top with remaining bacon, and bake at 350°F until bubbly (45-60 min). Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cowboy Beans in a slow cooker? Absolutely. After browning the beef and onion, add all ingredients (including all bacon) to your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
What’s the best substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, pork, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. For a smokier flavor, use diced smoked sausage.
How can I make this recipe less sweet? Reduce or omit the brown sugar and choose a savory, low-sugar barbecue sauce. The ketchup also adds sweetness, so you can reduce that as well.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F, adding a splash of water if needed.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Yes, but it requires planning. Use 1 cup of dried pinto beans. Soak and cook them fully according to package directions until tender, then use in place of the canned beans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: 1) Not draining the beef fat: Leaving too much grease will make the final dish oily. 2) Using all the bacon in the mix: Saving half for the topping provides crucial texture and visual appeal. 3) Underseasoning: Taste the bean mixture before baking and adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder. 4) Skipping the rest time: Serving immediately from the oven can result in a soupy consistency; letting it rest allows it to thicken perfectly.
Conclusion
This Cowboy Beans recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with deep, satisfying flavors. It’s incredibly versatile, easily customized to your taste, and perfect for feeding a group. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a weeknight dinner or a standout side at your next gathering, this dish delivers comfort and deliciousness in every bite. Give it a try and see why it’s a beloved classic.