Cowboy Baked Beans are the ultimate side dish or meal, combining savory beans with smoky bacon, ground beef, and a rich, tangy sauce. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a comforting family dinner. Packed with protein and bold flavors, these beans are so satisfying they can easily stand alone as the star of the meal.

Ingredients

For the Beans:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 6 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz / 425g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (15 oz / 425g each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz / 794g) baked beans, undrained

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup (240ml) barbecue sauce
• ½ cup (120ml) ketchup
• ¼ cup (60ml) mustard
• ½ cup (120ml) molasses or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Brown the Beef:
   Add the ground beef to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion softens. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, combine the cooked beef mixture, bacon, and all the beans. Stir in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is coated.
4. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pot and bake for 45-50 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
5. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a side dish or main meal.

Notes

• Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Add Spice: For a kick, stir in 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and bacon and use vegetarian baked beans for a meat-free alternative.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Cowboy Baked Beans are a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers bold, smoky flavors in every bite. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on their own, they’re sure to be a hit!