These easy cowboy baked beans are full of flavor and a hit at any gathering. With beans, barbecue sauce, and a hint of sweetness, they’re the perfect side dish!
Honestly, I could eat these beans straight from the pot! They go great with grilled meats or on their own. Plus, they are super easy to make, which is always a win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pinto Beans: You can use dried pinto beans, just make sure to soak and cook them first. Canned beans are a huge time-saver, so they’re great for quick meals! If you need a substitute, black beans or kidney beans also work well.
Bacon: Bacon adds that lovely smoky flavor, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, try using smoked tofu or tempeh instead!
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite brand! If you’re looking for a lighter choice, there are low-sugar options available. You can also make homemade barbecue sauce if you prefer.
Brown Sugar: Don’t have any? You can use white sugar or maple syrup as substitutes. For a sugar-free option, try using a sweetener of your choice like stevia.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Onions?
Cooking onions properly is key to making your cowboy baked beans taste amazing. Here’s how to get that perfect flavor:
- Start cooking your diced onions in the bacon fat left in the skillet for great flavor. If you want a healthier option, use olive oil instead.
- Cook on medium heat until they turn soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Avoid high heat as it can burn them.
Soft, sweet onions will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your baked beans!
Best Ever Easy Cowboy Baked Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans, about 28 oz each, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 pound bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Flavorings:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cowboy baked beans recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 55 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for your beans!
2. Cook the Bacon:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced bacon. Cook it until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, carefully remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor!
3. Sauté the Onion:
Now, add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté it until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This will make your baked beans full of flavor!
4. Combine All Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pinto beans, crispy bacon, sautéed onions, barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. This helps the beans cook evenly in the oven!
6. Bake the Beans:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are bubbly and slightly thickened on top.
7. Let It Rest:
Once you take the beans out of the oven, let them rest for 5 minutes. This little pause helps the flavors settle!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, feel free to garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a nice touch. Enjoy your cowboy baked beans as a delightful side dish perfect for any gathering!
These savory cowboy baked beans are not only delicious but also super easy to make. They complement barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners perfectly!
FAQ about Easy Cowboy Baked Beans
Can I Use Different Beans for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pinto beans are traditional, you can substitute them with black beans, kidney beans, or a mix of your favorites. Just ensure they are cooked or canned and well-drained before use.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and substitute it with smoked tempeh or a vegan bacon product to retain that smoky flavor. Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure it’s still flavorful!
Can I Make Cowboy Baked Beans Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bean mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if they seem a bit dry.
