Description

Saddle up for the bold and satisfying flavors of this Hearty Cowboy Beans recipe—a true crowd-pleaser that brings the spirit of the West right to your dinner table. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, quick weeknight meals, or hearty food ideas for gatherings, this dish delivers. With smoky bacon, savory ground beef, and a rich medley of beans simmered in a sweet-and-spicy tomato sauce, every bite is deeply comforting and full of flavor. Perfect for potlucks, cookouts, or just a cozy night in, it’s an easy recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your guests will ask for seconds!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

6 slices bacon, chopped

1 small onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 (15 oz) cans pork and beans, undrained

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1/2 cup barbecue sauce

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp yellow mustard

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Salt to taste

Instructions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until it starts to crisp.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in diced onion and green pepper. Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
Add pork and beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix well.
Stir in barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, pepper, and salt. Combine thoroughly.
Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally until flavors meld and sauce thickens.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner