Go Back
cowboy beans recipe

Cowboy Beans Recipe

Pinklady
Cowboy beans trace their roots back to the American Wild West. Cowboys on cattle drives needed simple, high-protein meals that could be prepared over a campfire. Pinto beans, a durable and nutritious option, became a staple. Over time, the addition of cured meats like bacon and a medley of spices transformed this humble dish into the flavorful comfort food we know today.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

Meats and Beans:

  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef
  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables and Sauce:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Ingredients:
    Start by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and slicing the bacon. Drain and rinse the beans, and gather all your seasonings and sauces for easy access.
  • Cook the Bacon:
    In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
  • Brown the Ground Beef:
    Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary.
  • Sauté the Aromatics:
    Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  • Combine Ingredients:
    Return the crispy bacon to the skillet, and then stir in the pinto beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
  • Make the Sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this sauce into the skillet and stir until everything is well-coated.
  • Simmer:
    Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot as a side dish, over rice, or with crusty bread.

Video

Keyword Cowboy Beans Recipe