Cowboy Beans are a classic, protein-packed dish that brings bold, smoky flavors to your table. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner, a summer BBQ, or a potluck, these beans are sure to be a crowd favorite. Made with simple ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and packed with meaty, sweet, and smoky goodness.
What Are Cowboy Beans?
Cowboy Beans got their name because cowboys and pioneers needed a hearty, nutritious meal that was easy to make and store while out on the trail. This dish remains a budget-friendly favorite that combines beans, bacon, and ground beef in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s versatile, too — you can customize it with your favorite seasonings or add a spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bacon (thick-cut or classic)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tbsp pre-minced)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 cans (15 oz each) pork and beans, not drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang
How to Make Cowboy Beans
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and roughly chop it. Drain most bacon grease, leaving a little to cook the onions.
- Add diced onion to the pan and cook until softened.
- Add ground beef and minced garlic, cooking until beef is no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess grease and turn off heat.
- Stir in chopped bacon, chili powder, salt, pepper, all beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Transfer the pot (Dutch oven) to the oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven, serve warm, and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Dutch Oven: Using a Dutch oven makes it easy to cook on the stove and finish in the oven with minimal cleanup.
- Baking Time: Check your beans at 40 minutes; oven temperatures vary and you want a thick, bubbling sauce.
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook bacon, onion, ground beef, and garlic on the stovetop first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations to Try
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Toss in taco seasoning, corn, and black beans for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping meat and adding extra beans and veggies like bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Cowboy Beans pair perfectly with grilled meats such as:
- Smash burgers
- Grilled hot dogs
- Pulled pork
- BBQ chicken
- Ribs
For a well-rounded meal, serve with grilled veggies like zucchini or broccoli.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze cooled leftovers in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Cowboy Beans are a delicious, hearty addition to any meal and a guaranteed hit at gatherings. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a backyard BBQ staple!