crock pot cowboy beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best crock pot cowboy beans recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite crock pot cowboy beans recipe. This hearty, comforting dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is easy to make and can be left to simmer all day in the crock pot while I take care of other tasks. The result is a delicious, tender bean dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

My kids adore it, and I know they’ll be asking for seconds every time. Plus, this recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a great option for a healthy meal.

So let’s get started and see how easy it is to make this mouthwatering cowboy beans recipe in your very own crock pot. I’ll walk you through the process step by step and provide you with some helpful tips along the way.

Crock Pot Cowboy Beans

4.6 from 1351 votes

A hearty and smoky bean dish slow-cooked with ground beef, bacon, and a sweet-tangy sauce. This easy crock pot recipe is perfect for potlucks, game days, or a comforting family dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

1 pound ground beef
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

1 can (15 oz) pork and beans
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup ketchup
1/3 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped bacon for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the bacon is crispy.
2Drain off excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
3Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet.
4Cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6Transfer the beef, bacon, and vegetable mixture to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.
7Add the pork and beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
8Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
9Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours, until the beans are thick and bubbly.
10Stir once halfway through cooking if possible.
11The beans are done when the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
12Taste the beans and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if desired.
13Serve hot as a main dish with cornbread or as a side alongside grilled meats.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Slow cooker (5-6 quart)
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a milder flavor, use a sweet barbecue sauce. For extra heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeno with the onions. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Cowboy Beans Works

This crock pot cowboy beans recipe is a true classic that never fails to impress my family and friends alike. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or want to wow your guests at your next family gathering.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort from you as the cook.

Simply throw all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it do all the work while you focus on other tasks. The result is a deliciously tender bean dish packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins that everyone will love.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Cowboy Beans

What is the origin of cowboy beans?

Cowboy beans have their roots in traditional American cuisine, specifically in the Western United States where cowboys would cook beans over an open flame or in a Dutch oven. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include various ingredients and cooking methods, but its core remains the same – simple, hearty beans cooked to perfection.

How long does it take to cook cowboy beans in a crock pot?

The beauty of cooking cowboy beans in a crock pot is that it’s incredibly easy and requires minimal supervision. Simply add all the ingredients to the crock pot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful the beans will be.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans instead of canned. In fact, using dried beans will result in a more authentic and flavorful experience. Just be sure to soak them overnight before cooking them in the crock pot.

How do I store leftover cowboy beans?

You can store leftover cowboy beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure they’re heated through until hot and bubbly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is easily adaptable to vegetarian or vegan dietary needs by substituting the ground beef with additional vegetables or plant-based protein sources like tempeh or seitan.

Similar Posts