Cowboy Beans

Get ready for the very best Cowboy Beans you’ve ever tasted! Bursting with smoky bacon, tender ground beef, and a mix of sweet and savory beans, this dish is a true comfort classic. Each bite is packed with bold barbecue flavor, a subtle kick of spice, and just the right amount of sweetness.

What makes this Cowboy Beans recipe a must-try? It’s incredibly easy—just one pot, a handful of pantry staples, and you’ve got a hearty meal ready in an hour. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd at a backyard bbq, looking for a no-fuss weeknight dinner, or craving something filling and nostalgic, these beans deliver.

This recipe is inspired by big family cookouts and potluck gatherings where everyone lines up for second helpings. It’s rustic, satisfying, and always a hit—trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for crowds: Feeds a group and is always a hit at potlucks or barbecues.
• One-pot convenience: Easy cleanup and simple prep—just brown, simmer, and serve.
• Big, bold flavor: Smoky, savory, sweet, and a little spicy all in one.
• Incredibly hearty: Protein-packed and filling enough for a main dish or a substantial side.

Key Ingredients for Cowboy Beans

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Ground Beef

Ground beef brings rich, savory flavor and a hearty texture to the beans. Use 85 to 90 percent lean for the best balance of flavor and less grease. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or pork, but beef is traditional and gives these beans their signature “meaty” bite.

Bacon

Bacon is the secret to that irresistible smoky, salty depth of flavor. Thick-cut bacon works beautifully, but any type will do. Dice it into small pieces so every spoonful gets a little bacon goodness. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can be used for lighter or meatless versions, though the flavor will change.

Beans (Pork and Beans, Kidney, Pinto)

Cowboy Beans are all about the bean medley! Canned pork and beans add sweetness and sauce, while kidney and pinto beans offer texture and heartiness. You can use all one variety if you like, or even swap in black beans or great northern beans—whatever you have on hand works.

Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce ties the whole dish together with its sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor. Choose your favorite brand, or go homemade for a personal touch. Hickory or chipotle barbecue sauce adds extra smokiness, while honey barbecue makes it sweeter.

Brown Sugar

A touch of brown sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the savory and spicy notes. Light or dark brown sugar works, or swap for maple syrup or honey for a different twist.

Instructions for Cowboy Beans

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is crisp and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Brown the Beef and Veggies

Add the ground beef to the bacon drippings in the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crumbly, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add Beans and Sauces

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the pork and beans (with their sauce), kidney beans, and pinto beans. Add the barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined.

Simmer to Blend Flavors

Return the cooked bacon to the pot and give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the beans are bubbling.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve Cowboy Beans hot, garnished with extra bacon or chopped parsley if desired. They’re perfect right out of the pot or as a side for your favorite barbecue dishes!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the vegetables for a fiery kick. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce to turn up the heat!

Vegetarian Cowboy Beans

Swap the ground beef and bacon for plant-based crumbles and vegetarian bacon, or simply leave them out and add an extra can of beans for a protein boost. Use vegetarian baked beans for a fully meatless dish.

Sweet and Smoky

Use a smoky barbecue sauce and a little liquid smoke for a deeper, campfire flavor. For extra sweetness, add a tablespoon of molasses or maple syrup in place of some brown sugar.

Slow Cooker Method

After browning the bacon, beef, and veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours for extra tender, flavorful beans.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy Beans are a fantastic meal on their own, served hot in bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onion. For a classic barbecue spread, pair them with grilled sausages, cornbread, and a crisp coleslaw. They also make a hearty side for burgers, smoked brisket, or pulled pork. For extra flair, top with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream.

Storage and Reheating

Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot. Cowboy Beans freeze beautifully—just pack in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Beans (FAQ)

Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes! Cook dried beans fully before adding them to the recipe. You’ll need about 4 cups cooked beans total.

Q: Are Cowboy Beans gluten-free?
A: They can be! Just be sure to use gluten-free barbecue sauce and check that your beans and ketchup don’t contain gluten.

Q: Can I make Cowboy Beans ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. In fact, they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Dig into a bowl of these hearty Cowboy Beans and discover why they’re always the first thing gone at any gathering! If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below—I can’t wait to hear how much you love them!