Here’s a hearty, smoky, sweet-and-savory Cowboy Baked Beans recipe—comfort food at its best and perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or a cozy dinner!
Cowboy Baked Beans
Ingredients
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4–5 slices bacon, chopped
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1 lb ground beef (optional but traditional)
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cans (28 oz total) pork and beans or baked beans
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1/2 cup barbecue sauce
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1/3 cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon yellow mustard (or Dijon)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook bacon and beef
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In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crisp.
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Remove bacon and set aside, leaving some drippings in the pan.
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Add the ground beef to the skillet and brown it.
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Add diced onion and cook until soft.
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Drain excess grease.
2. Combine ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or the skillet (off heat), stir together:
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Pork & beans
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BBQ sauce
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Brown sugar
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Ketchup
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Mustard
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Worcestershire
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Chili powder
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Cooked bacon, beef, and onions
Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Bake
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Pour into a baking dish or Dutch oven.
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Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45–60 minutes, until thickened and bubbly.
(You can also cook them in a slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.)
Tips & Variations
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Smokier flavor: Add smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.
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Spicier: Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
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Sweeter: Add a bit more brown sugar or a spoonful of molasses.
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More hearty: Add sliced smoked sausage or diced ham.
Serving Ideas
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With cornbread
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Alongside BBQ ribs, brisket, or grilled chicken
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As a standalone meal with a green salad
If you’d like, I can also give you a slow cooker version, a no-meat version, or a sweet & spicy “rodeo-style” version. Just tell me!
