When it comes to hearty, flavorful side dishes, Cowboy Beans are at the top of the list. This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining a variety of beans with applewood smoked bacon, ground beef, and a tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a comforting weeknight meal, these beans pack a punch of flavor with every bite. The combination of sweet, smoky, and savory elements makes Cowboy Beans a dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love These Cowboy Beans
- Rich and Hearty: The combination of bacon, ground beef, and three types of beans makes this dish incredibly satisfying and filling.
- Full of Flavor: With a base of tangy barbecue sauce, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of mustard, these beans are packed with layers of flavor.
- Versatile Side Dish: These beans pair perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or even as a standalone dish with a side of cornbread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 Pound Bacon (Thick-Cut Applewood, Chopped): Adds a smoky, crispy element that’s essential to the flavor.
- 1 Small Yellow Onion, Diced: Provides a sweet, savory base.
- 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- 1 Pound Lean Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and depth to the dish.
- 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder: Brings a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Salt: Balances the flavors.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
- 3 (15-Ounce) Cans Pork and Beans (Not Drained): Provides the base for the dish, adding a sweet and savory flavor.
- 1 (15-Ounce) Can Cannellini Beans, Drained: Adds creaminess and a different texture.
- 1 (15-Ounce) Can Kidney Beans, Drained: Adds color and a slight firmness.
- 1 Cup Barbecue Sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s Recommended): The main flavor component, adding tangy, sweet, and smoky notes.
- 1/2 Cup Ketchup: Adds sweetness and enhances the tomato base.
- 1/4 Cup Brown Sugar: Balances the tanginess with a touch of sweetness.
- 2 Tablespoons Yellow Mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and depth of flavor.
- 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens the flavors with a touch of acidity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your beans will bake evenly and develop a rich, deep flavor.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot, and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave a bit of the bacon grease in the pot to cook the onions.
3. Cook the Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon grease and cook over medium heat until the onion is almost tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Cook the Beef and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the pot with the onions. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
5. Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked bacon to the pot, and add the chili powder, salt, pepper, pork and beans (with their sauce), drained cannellini beans, drained kidney beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed.
6. Bake: Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Baking the beans allows the flavors to meld together and thicken the sauce. The top should be slightly caramelized and bubbling when done.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 437 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
- Sodium: 1591mg
- Potassium: 817mg
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 23g
- Vitamin A: 469 IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 102mg
- Iron: 4mg
Serving Suggestions
- With Grilled Meats: Serve these beans alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or steak for a complete, hearty meal.
- With Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread makes a perfect companion to these beans.
- As a Main Dish: These beans are filling enough to be served as a main course, especially when paired with a light salad.
Conclusion
These Cowboy Beans are the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors in one delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making a hearty family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The combination of beans, bacon, and ground beef in a rich barbecue sauce is simply irresistible. Try it out, and bring a taste of the wild west to your table!