Cowboy Baked Beans Recipe

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Introduction

Cowboy Baked Beans are the ultimate comfort food, combining savory, sweet, and smoky flavors into a rich, hearty dish. This classic recipe is loaded with ground beef, bacon, and a mix of beans, all simmered in a tangy barbecue sauce. It’s a timeless favorite that’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cowboy Baked Beans

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can baked beans
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor
  • ½ cup diced bell peppers for extra texture
  • A splash of liquid smoke for a BBQ twist
  • 1–2 diced jalapeños for a spicy kick

Tips for Success

  1. Balance the Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and smokiness by tweaking the barbecue sauce and sugar amounts.
  2. Use Quality Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a richer, more robust flavor.
  3. Mix Beans for Texture: Using a variety of beans provides a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Pre-Cook the Meat: Ensure the ground beef and bacon are cooked and drained to prevent excess grease.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

  1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the baked beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and optional seasonings. Stir to combine.
  3. Add the cooked ground beef, bacon, and sautéed onions and garlic to the mixture. Stir thoroughly.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until bubbling and slightly thickened.

Description

Cowboy Baked Beans are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky. The beans are tender, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the addition of bacon and ground beef makes it hearty enough to stand as a main dish. The baked caramelized top adds a delightful texture, while the smoky undertones bring everything together.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Protein: 18g

Conclusion

Cowboy Baked Beans are a versatile dish that works equally well as a hearty side or a filling main course. Their rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make them a favorite for gatherings, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner.

Recommendation

Serve Cowboy Baked Beans with cornbread, a fresh green salad, or a side of coleslaw for a well-rounded meal. For outdoor events, pair with grilled meats like brisket or ribs to complete the feast.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

If you want a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and turkey bacon as a substitute for traditional bacon. Opt for low-sodium beans and sauces to control the salt content while still enjoying this comforting classic guilt-free.

Let me know if you’d like to adapt the recipe further!

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