Cowboy Beans is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings, tailgates, or just a comforting meal at home. This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, from the savory notes of crispy bacon and ground beef to the sweetness of barbecue sauce and brown sugar. I vividly remember the first time I made Cowboy Beans—sitting around the campfire with family, sharing stories, and enjoying every last bite. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, and it’s especially popular when you’re feeding a crowd.

Why you’ll love this dish

One of the standout features of Cowboy Beans is its budget-friendly nature; you can feed a large group without breaking the bank. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the year—perfect for chilly nights or summer barbecues. The use of canned beans makes this dish a quick fix for busy weeknights, yet it has the depth of flavor that feels fancy enough for special occasions. Whether served as a side or the main event, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

“These Cowboy Beans are a staple in our home! The combination of flavors and ease of preparation makes them a must-have for every family gathering.” — happy home cook

The cooking process explained

Preparing Cowboy Beans is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for any level of cooking experience. You’ll begin by cooking your bacon until it’s perfectly crispy, then move on to browning the ground beef and onion. With just a few additional steps — combining all the ingredients and letting everything cook together — you’ll be rewarded with a thick, creamy dish that oozes flavor.

The magic truly happens in the slow cooker, where the ingredients meld beautifully over a few hours. In the end, you’ll have a rich and satisfying dish that can stand on its own or complement various accompaniments.

What you’ll need

Gather these ingredients before you start:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 6–8 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) baked beans
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use smoked bacon for an extra depth of flavor!