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Savory Cowboy Beans: Hearty Comfort Food for Your Table

Savory Cowboy Beans are a comforting dish that combines tender beans, savory ground beef, and smoky bacon, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bean recipe, Comfort Food, dinner recipe, Hearty Meal, Savory Cowboy Beans
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Ingredients

For the Beef and Bacon

  • 1 pound Ground Beef substitute with plant-based meat for vegetarian
  • 4-6 slices Thick-Cut Bacon can be replaced with turkey bacon or omitted

For the Beans

  • 1 can Pinto Beans can substitute with black or white beans
  • 1 can Kidney Beans any canned bean can be used
  • 1 can Pork and Beans may swap for more pinto or baked beans

For the Aromatics

  • 1 medium Onion use yellow or white onion; shallots are alternatives
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic fresh garlic preferred, garlic powder as an alternative

For the Sauce

  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes canned tomatoes with green chilies add spice
  • 1 cup Barbecue Sauce choose a thick variety
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar can substitute with honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar can work as alternatives
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce soy sauce or a vegan alternative can replace it

Seasonings

  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Instructions

Instructions

  • In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside; drain excess grease from the pot.
  • Add the ground beef to the pot and brown thoroughly, stirring frequently for about 5-8 minutes.
  • Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the pinto beans, kidney beans, and pork and beans along with the diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
  • Incorporate the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Before serving, stir in the reserved bacon and let it warm through for about 3-5 minutes.

Notes

Optional: Serve with warm cornbread for a delightful pairing.