Cowboy Baked Beans are a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that perfectly blends savory, sweet, and smoky flavors in one pot. Imagine tender baked beans enriched with ground beef, tangy Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of brown sugar, creating a warm, satisfying side that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend cookouts. This dish carries a rustic charm that brings the spirit of the open range right to your kitchen table. Did you know cowboy baked beans were a staple for cowboys on the trail because they were easy to prepare and packed with energy? If you enjoy classic comfort foods like chili or chili mac, this recipe will be a delightful new favorite. Simple, quick, and irresistibly tasty — let’s dive into what makes cowboy baked beans so special.
What is Cowboy Baked Beans?
Ever wondered why these baked beans are called “cowboy” baked beans? Is it because cowboys loved beans, or did they magically make them while rounding up cattle? Maybe. Maybe not! One thing’s for sure — these beans are rugged, filling, and downright delicious, just like the cowboys who inspired the name. Legend has it that cowboys needed a meal that was easy to carry and cook over a campfire, and this baked beans recipe delivered every time. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this one certainly fits the bill. So why not saddle up and try this recipe? It might just become your next go-to comfort food!
Why You’ll Love This
Cowboy Baked Beans stand out because of their rich combination of flavors and textures. The ground beef adds a meaty, savory depth that takes these beans from a simple side dish to a filling meal. Not only that, making them at home saves you money compared to buying canned or restaurant versions — and you control every ingredient for better taste and nutrition. Plus, the clever use of browned onions, green bell peppers, and just the right amount of brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors that will keep your taste buds coming back for more. If you’re a fan of dishes like classic baked beans or BBQ beans, this recipe offers a new twist to enjoy. Ready to impress your family and friends? Give this cowboy classic a try and enjoy a flavorful, budget-friendly meal everyone will love.
How to Make
Quick Overview
Cowboy Baked Beans are incredibly easy to make and take about 30 minutes from start to finish. This dish shines with its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, requiring minimal chopping and stirring. The combination of ground beef, onions, and bell peppers melds beautifully into the baked beans, enhanced by a tangy Worcestershire kick and a hint of brown sugar sweetness. The result is a thick, hearty pot of baked beans that’s perfect as a side or even a main course for busy weeknights or backyard barbecues.
Ingredients
- 1 can (28 oz) of Bush’s Baked Beans
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon onion & herb seasoning
- 1/4 cup minced onions
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell peppers
Step-by-Step
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the minced onions, chopped onions, and chopped green bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Season: Add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and onion & herb seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine with Baked Beans: Pour the can of Bush’s Baked Beans into the skillet, mixing all the ingredients thoroughly. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve Warm: Once the mixture is thickened and bubbly, remove it from heat. Your cowboy baked beans are ready to serve!
What to Serve Cowboy Baked Beans With
Cowboy Baked Beans are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with classic BBQ dishes like grilled ribs, burgers, or hot dogs. Serve alongside cornbread, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a chilled beer perfectly complements the smoky, sweet flavors of the beans. These beans also make a great side for chili or smoked brisket, adding a cozy, comforting touch to any hearty feast.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Use quality canned baked beans: Bush’s is a great choice because of its rich flavor and texture, but any brand will work.
- Don’t rush the browning process: Taking the time to properly cook the ground beef and veggies adds depth and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness and tang to taste: If you like it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar; for extra tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar works wonders.
- Try smoked bacon: For an even smokier, richer flavor, fry some diced bacon first and mix it in with the ground beef.
- Avoid over-simmering: Too long and the beans can become mushy. Aim for a thick but still textured finish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. If you want to prepare this recipe ahead of time, cowboy baked beans freeze well. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, leave some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables or plant-based meat crumbles to keep it hearty.
Q: What other beans work in cowboy baked beans?
A: Pinto beans or navy beans work great if you want to switch it up, but canned baked beans keep the flavor classic and simple.
Q: Can I use fresh onions and bell peppers instead of canned or frozen?
A: Absolutely — freshly chopped onions and bell peppers add a fresher, brighter flavor to the dish.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No, this recipe has a balanced sweet and savory taste but feel free to add chili powder or hot sauce if you like a kick.
Q: Can I prepare cowboy baked beans in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, just brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
Cowboy Baked Beans are a timeless, delicious recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight side dish, this recipe offers a perfect balance of savory meatiness, sweet undertones, and wholesome beans. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and full of hearty goodness. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and whip up a batch of cowboy baked beans—your taste buds (and your stomach) will thank you. Don’t forget to explore more recipes on the blog to keep your meals exciting and satisfying!
Cowboy Baked Beans
Equipment
-
Large Skillet
-
Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Canned Baked Beans
- 1 can (28 oz) Bush’s Baked Beans
Ground Beef
- 1/2 pound Ground Beef
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Onion & herb seasoning
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup Minced onions
- 1/2 cup Chopped onions
- 1/2 cup Chopped green bell peppers
Instructions
-
Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
-
Step 2: Stir in the minced onions, chopped onions, and chopped green bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
-
Step 3: Add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and onion & herb seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
-
Step 4: Pour the can of Bush’s Baked Beans into the skillet, mixing all the ingredients thoroughly. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Step 5: Once the mixture is thickened and bubbly, remove it from heat. Your cowboy baked beans are ready to serve!
Notes
Cowboy Baked Beans
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Canned Baked Beans
- 1 can (28 oz) Bush’s Baked Beans
Ground Beef
- 1/2 pound Ground Beef
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Onion & herb seasoning
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup Minced onions
- 1/2 cup Chopped onions
- 1/2 cup Chopped green bell peppers
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 2: Stir in the minced onions, chopped onions, and chopped green bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Step 3: Add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and onion & herb seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 4: Pour the can of Bush’s Baked Beans into the skillet, mixing all the ingredients thoroughly. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 5: Once the mixture is thickened and bubbly, remove it from heat. Your cowboy baked beans are ready to serve!
1 comment
Not homemade, homemade is you cook your bean from the bag of yelloweye, etc soak over night, then add the sugar, dry mustard, onion, bacon or fat back and molasses. That’s homemade, can beans are processed. That burns my cookie when they say homemade beans when they are actually using canned.