Easy Cowboy Baked Beans Recipe

Cowboy baked beans, a hearty and flavorful dish, is the perfect comfort food for any gathering. This rustic recipe combines the richness of beans with a smoky, sweet sauce that has a hint of spice. The key to authentic cowboy baked beans lies in its simple, robust ingredients: pinto or navy beans, smoky bacon or salt pork, onions, and a sauce made from molasses, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Some versions also include a dash of ground mustard or chili powder to add depth.

To prepare cowboy baked beans, start by cooking the bacon until it’s crisp. Then sauté the onions in the bacon fat, adding an irresistible aroma to the dish. Mix the beans with the cooked bacon and onions, and then stir in the sauce ingredients. The mixture is then slow-cooked in the oven or on a stovetop, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

The result is a thick, rich dish that’s both sweet and savory. Perfect for a barbecue or a chilly evening, this cowboy baked beans recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, filling the air with its tantalizing aroma and warming everyone’s hearts and bellies.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large Oven-Safe Pot or Dutch Oven – Essential for both stovetop cooking and oven baking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurately measuring ingredients.
Knife – To chop the onions and any other add-ins.
Cutting Board – For safe and efficient chopping.
Wooden Spoon – To stir the ingredients without scratching the pot.
Can Opener – If using canned beans.
Colander – To rinse and drain the beans.

Ingredients for Cowboy Baked Beans

Beans:
2 cups of dried pinto or navy beans, soaked overnight and drained (or two 15-ounce cans of beans, drained and rinsed)
Meat:
6 strips of bacon, chopped (or 1/2 cup chopped salt pork)
Vegetables:
1 large onion, finely chopped
Sauce:
1/3 cup molasses
1/3 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon mustard (preferably Dijon or a similar mustard)
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for added spice)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquid:
1 cup water or chicken broth (adjust based on the consistency preference)

How To Make Cowboy Baked Beans?

Preparing the Beans

If using dried beans, begin by soaking them overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the beans are tender, about 1 to 2 hours. Drain and set aside. For canned beans, simply drain and rinse them thoroughly.

Cooking the Bacon and Onions

In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat until translucent and beginning to brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Making the Sauce

To the onions, add the molasses, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and chili powder (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Combining the Ingredients

Add the cooked or canned beans and the cooked bacon back into the pot. Pour in the water or chicken broth and stir everything together to ensure the beans are well-coated with the sauce. The liquid should just barely cover the beans; add a little more if it seems too dry.

Baking the Dish

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). Once heated, cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 2 hours. Check midway through cooking, giving it a stir and adding a bit more liquid if needed. The beans should be tender and the sauce thick and flavorful.

Finishing Touches

Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly as it cools. Serve warm as a hearty side dish, perfect for accompanying barbecued meats or as a fulfilling main on its own. Enjoy your homemade cowboy baked beans, infused with layers of deep, smoky flavors.

What Goes Yummy With?

Grilled Cornbread: A slice of buttery, grilled cornbread complements the smokiness of the baked beans.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the beans.
Smoked Sausages: Serve alongside smoked sausages for a hearty, meaty addition that matches well with the beans’ bold flavors.
Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken provides a delightful texture and taste that pairs wonderfully with the soft, savory beans.
Corn on the Cob: Buttered corn on the cob is a sweet and simple side that balances the hearty beans.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream can be a comforting base for the beans, creating a satisfying meal.
Green Salad: A light, leafy green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can offset the beans’ richness.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the beans and savoring the sauce.
Steamed Rice: A bowl of steamed white or brown rice makes a neutral, filling side that soaks up the delicious bean sauce.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Combine with pulled pork sandwiches for a truly indulgent, Southern-style feast.

Health Benefits of Cowboy Baked Beans

High Protein Content: Beans are an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. This makes cowboy baked beans a great option for vegetarians and those looking to increase their protein intake without relying on meat.
Rich in Fiber: The beans used in this dish are high in dietary fiber, which helps to promote a healthy digestive system. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements and can help to prevent constipation, as well as lowering cholesterol levels.
Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: Beans are packed with essential nutrients such as iron, potassium, and magnesium. Iron helps in forming red blood cells and preventing anemia, potassium regulates blood pressure, and magnesium supports hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body.
Antioxidant Properties: The molasses in cowboy baked beans is a good source of antioxidants, which fight against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Low in Fat: This dish is relatively low in fat, especially if lean cuts of bacon or minimal oil is used during cooking. This makes it a healthier option compared to other traditional bean recipes that may contain more fat.
Heart Health: Due to their high fiber content and low fat level, eating cowboy baked beans can contribute to heart health by helping to manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Blood Sugar Control: The complex carbohydrates in beans break down slowly, providing steady energy and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. This makes cowboy baked beans a good food choice for people with diabetes.

Tips And Tricks

Pre-cook the Bacon: For extra flavor, crisp the bacon before adding it to the beans. This enhances the texture and infuses the dish with a smoky richness.
Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the bacon and onions, deglaze the skillet with a little beer or apple cider vinegar to lift the flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Add this to your beans for an extra depth of flavor.
Mix Bean Varieties: Use a mix of different beans such as pinto, navy, and kidney beans to add variety in texture and flavor to your dish.
Adjust the Sweetness: Tailor the sweetness to your taste by adjusting the amount of brown sugar or adding a touch of molasses for a deeper, richer sweetness.
Slow Cook for Best Results: Allow the beans to cook slowly, either in a slow cooker or a low oven. This slow cooking process helps the flavors to meld better and beans to absorb the seasonings fully.
Add a Spice Kick: If you like a little heat, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beans.
Experiment with Liquid Smoke: For an enhanced smoky flavor, without the grill, add a few drops of liquid smoke to your bean mixture.
Freshen with Herbs: Before serving, stir through some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro to add a burst of freshness and color.
Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the beans sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to deepen even further.
Store Properly: Cowboy baked beans taste even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently for best results.

Cookout Food Safety

Proper Food Storage

Keep Cold Foods Cold: Store perishable foods like salads, dips, and meats in coolers with ice or frozen gel packs. Cold food should be kept at 40°F (4°C) or colder.
Separate Raw and Cooked Foods: Use separate coolers for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Hot Food Handling: Keep hot foods hot, at 140°F (60°C) or warmer, by using warming trays or slow cookers.

Safe Food Preparation

Clean Work Surfaces: Ensure that all surfaces, including tables and cutting boards, are clean before preparing food.
Wash Hands Frequently: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling food, especially when switching between handling raw meats and ready-to-eat foods.
Use Separate Utensils: Have dedicated sets of utensils for raw and cooked foods. This includes tongs, spatulas, and cutting boards.

Cooking to Proper Temperatures

Use a Food Thermometer: Always use a food thermometer to ensure meats are cooked to a safe internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria. For example, poultry should be cooked to 165°F (74°C), burgers to 160°F (71°C), and steaks to at least 145°F (63°C) for medium rare.
Avoid Partial Cooking: Never partially grill meat or poultry and finish cooking later. Cook food completely to reduce the risk of harmful bacteria.

Serving Food Safely

Timely Serving: Serve cooked foods immediately after cooking, or keep them hot until serving. Do not leave food out for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature outside is above 90°F (32°C).
Storing Leftovers: Promptly store leftovers in shallow containers and refrigerate within two hours after cooking. Make sure the refrigerator is at 40°F (4°C) or colder.

Cleaning Up

Dispose of Perishables: Discard any perishable foods left out for more than two hours, or one hour if in hot weather.
Clean Equipment: After the cookout, thoroughly clean grills, utensils, and surfaces to prevent bacterial growth.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use a smoky barbecue sauce or smoked paprika for flavor. You can also add smoked tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.
Spicy Cowboy Beans: Add chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to give the beans a spicy kick.
BBQ Twist: Mix in different types of barbecue sauce, such as a honey BBQ or a spicy BBQ, to alter the flavor profile of the dish.
Whiskey Beans: For a deeper, more complex flavor, add a splash of bourbon or whiskey to the beans during the cooking process.
Tex-Mex Style: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, corn, and a taco seasoning blend to give the beans a Tex-Mex flair.
Sweet and Savory: Add chopped apples and a hint of cinnamon for a unique sweet and savory version.

Substitutions

Meat Substitutes: Instead of bacon, use diced ham, chorizo, or ground beef for different flavors and textures.
Bean Varieties: Swap out traditional beans with black beans, garbanzo beans, or even lentils.
Sugar Alternatives: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup, honey, or molasses depending on your preferred sweetness level.
Mustard Options: Use stone ground mustard or honey mustard instead of regular mustard for a different tangy component.
Vegan Adaptation: For a vegan version, eliminate all animal products and use vegan bacon or add more vegetables like mushrooms for umami flavor.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and condiments are gluten-free if catering to a gluten-sensitive audience.

Making Ahead

Cowboy baked beans are an excellent dish for preparing in advance, as the flavors deepen and meld when allowed to sit. You can cook the beans a day or two before your event or meal. Simply follow the recipe as usual, let the beans cool after cooking, then cover and refrigerate. This rest period gives the ingredients time to harmonize, enhancing the overall taste and richness of the dish.

Storage

To store cowboy baked beans, transfer them to airtight containers once they’ve cooled to room temperature. Properly stored, they will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to store them for a longer period, cowboy baked beans freeze well. Place them in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container as the beans will expand when frozen.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your cowboy baked beans, they can be reheated in several ways to restore their original texture and flavor:

Microwave: For a quick option, place a portion of the beans in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beans in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If the beans seem dry, you can stir in a small amount of water or broth before heating.
Stovetop: Transfer the beans to a pot and reheat them over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until they are completely warmed. Add a splash of water or broth if the mixture is too thick or begins to stick to the bottom of the pot.

Nutritional Facts

Calories: 360 kcal
Total Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg
Sodium: 450 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50 g
Dietary Fiber: 10 g
Sugars: 20 g
Protein: 18 g
Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A: 2% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 4% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 8% of the Daily Value
Iron: 20% of the Daily Value

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

Yes, you can! While traditional cowboy baked beans are often made with pinto or navy beans, you can use other types like kidney beans, black beans, or a mix of your favorite varieties. Each type of bean will bring a unique texture and flavor to the dish.

To make vegetarian cowboy baked beans, simply omit the bacon or salt pork and use a plant-based oil for sautéing the onions. Consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor that meat typically provides.

If your cowboy baked beans are too watery, continue cooking them uncovered over low heat on the stove, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Stirring in a small amount of cornstarch slurry or mashed beans can also help thicken the sauce more quickly.

Cowboy baked beans can be gluten-free, but you need to check the labels on all packaged ingredients like ketchup and mustard, as some may contain gluten. Also, ensure any broth used is labeled gluten-free if you are sensitive or celiac.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a spicy kick to your cowboy baked beans by including ingredients like chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Cowboy Baked Beans

Recipe by JesseCourse: SidesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

hours

Calories

360

kcal

Ingredients

Beans:
2 cups of dried pinto or navy beans, soaked overnight and drained (or two 15-ounce cans of beans, drained and rinsed)
Meat:
6 strips of bacon, chopped (or 1/2 cup chopped salt pork)
Vegetables:
1 large onion, finely chopped
Sauce:
1/3 cup molasses
1/3 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon mustard (preferably Dijon or a similar mustard)
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for added spice)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquid:
1 cup water or chicken broth (adjust based on the consistency preference)

Directions

If using dried beans, begin by soaking them overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the beans are tender, about 1 to 2 hours. Drain and set aside. For canned beans, simply drain and rinse them thoroughly.
In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat until translucent and beginning to brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
To the onions, add the molasses, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and chili powder (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Add the cooked or canned beans and the cooked bacon back into the pot. Pour in the water or chicken broth and stir everything together to ensure the beans are well-coated with the sauce. The liquid should just barely cover the beans; add a little more if it seems too dry.
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). Once heated, cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 2 hours. Check midway through cooking, giving it a stir and adding a bit more liquid if needed. The beans should be tender and the sauce thick and flavorful.
Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly as it cools. Serve warm as a hearty side dish, perfect for accompanying barbecued meats or as a fulfilling main on its own. Enjoy your homemade cowboy baked beans, infused with layers of deep, smoky flavors.

Conclusion

Cowboy baked beans serve as a delicious and versatile dish that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors with a touch of smokiness. Whether prepared for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or as a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. The recipe’s adaptability allows for various modifications, catering to different dietary needs or personal preferences. Adding elements like smoked paprika, different bean types, or a spicy kick can tailor the beans to any palate.

Moreover, cowboy baked beans are not only tasty but also offer nutritional benefits, being rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They are a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a hearty and delightful meal that embodies the spirit of traditional, rustic cooking.