Cowboy Beans

Get ready for a satisfying and savory ride with this traditional recipe for Cowboy Beans. This recipe, which is a favorite among cowboys, is packed with flavorful beef, rich spices, and a medley of beans that will definitely satisfy your hunger at home or around the campfire.

Tasting Notes

Expect a robust blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with a touch of heat. The combination of beans and meat creates a comforting and filling dish perfect for any cowboy or cowgirl.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

Kitchen Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Baking dish or Dutch oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced bacon until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to create the sauce.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat mixture in the skillet and stir to combine.
6. In a large baking dish or Dutch oven, combine the drained and rinsed kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans.
7. Pour the meat and sauce mixture over the beans, stirring gently to evenly distribute.
8. Cover the baking dish or Dutch oven with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
9. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly.
10. Serve the Cowboy Beans hot and enjoy the hearty flavors of the Wild West!

Pro Tips

• For a smokier flavor, add a few dashes of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
• Experiment with different types of beans for a unique twist.

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat and freshness.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Top with shredded cheese or chopped green onions before serving.

FAQs