These Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef are a hearty dish loaded with flavor! Made with tender beans, savory beef, and a sweet sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy meal or backyard BBQ.
Trust me, these beans can steal the spotlight on any table! I love serving them with cornbread for extra fun. They’re easy to make and taste even better the next day—win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish. I usually go for lean ground beef to keep it healthier, but you can use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option.
Baked Beans: Canned baked beans bring sweetness and flavor. If you prefer homemade, simmer navy beans with some brown sugar and ketchup for a similar taste.
Beans (Kidney & Pinto): These beans add texture and protein. You can swap them out for black beans or chickpeas if you need a change.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for flavor. If you’re out, a mix of ketchup and apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute, or try homemade BBQ sauce with basic ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bite, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Simmer My Cowboy Baked Beans for Best Flavor?
Simmering is key to letting all the flavors blend in this dish. It’s all about patience! Here’s how to do it right:
- After combining everything in the skillet, lower the heat to keep it at a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot to trap steam and moisture, allowing the flavors to meld together without drying out.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to check if it needs more seasoning.
- Give it at least 20-30 minutes to simmer, but longer is even better if you have time!
This patience enhances the taste, making your beans rich and full of flavor. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (28 oz) baked beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cowboy Baked Beans dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a hearty meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Begin by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s a lot of fat, you might want to drain the excess to keep the dish from being greasy.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, add in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will add wonderful flavor to your beans.
3. Combine the Beans and Flavors:
Now it’s time to add the stars of the show! Pour in the baked beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans (been rinsed and drained), along with the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors.
4. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 20 to 30 minutes. This simmering time is key for letting all the flavors meld beautifully together, so don’t rush it! Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Final Touches and Serving:
Once done, give your dish a taste. Adjust the seasonings if needed—more salt, pepper, or spices can be added according to your palate. To serve, ladle the beans into bowls while they’re still hot.
6. Add Toppings:
For that extra special touch, top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese and garnish with sliced green onions. This will not only look fantastic but add a delightful flavor too!
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef! Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the kidney and pinto beans for any beans you like, such as black beans or navy beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with either crumbled tofu, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The cooking instructions remain the same, just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the cooled beans in freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or microwave.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can prepare everything up to the simmering step and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time if starting from the fridge!
