These cowboy baked beans are packed with rich, smoky flavors, tender ground beef, and vibrant bell peppers, all combined with sweet and savory baked beans. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or even as a hearty main meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together for a dish full of bold flavors.
✔️ Rich & Hearty – A delicious mix of sweet, smoky, and savory goodness.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for BBQs, family dinners, or game nights.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (28 oz) Bush’s Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans are the heart of this dish.
- 1/2 pound ground beef – Adds a delicious, meaty texture.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Brings a deep umami flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon onion & herb seasoning – Enhances the savory taste.
- 1/4 cup minced onions – For a mild onion flavor throughout.
- 1/2 cup chopped onions – Adds a bit of texture and extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup green bell peppers, chopped – Brings a fresh, slightly sweet crunch.
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
2️⃣ Add Seasonings for Extra Flavor
Once the beef is cooked, stir in Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, onion & herb seasoning, and 1/4 cup of minced onions. Mix well and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The onions should soften slightly, enhancing the dish’s depth.
3️⃣ Combine with Beans and Vegetables
Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a large baking dish. Add the can of baked beans, along with the chopped onions and green bell peppers. Stir well so that everything is evenly distributed. This combination will create a rich and flavorful blend.
4️⃣ Bake Until Bubbly & Delicious
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are hot and bubbling, and the bell peppers are tender. If you like a slightly caramelized top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. These cowboy baked beans taste fantastic on their own, as a side dish with grilled meats, or paired with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
💡 Pro Tip: Want extra smokiness? Add a dash of smoked paprika or a spoonful of barbecue sauce for an extra depth of flavor!
Perfect Pairings for Cowboy Baked Beans:
🥩 BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork – The smoky flavors complement grilled meats beautifully.
🌽 Cornbread or Garlic Bread – A perfect side to soak up all the delicious sauce.
🥗 Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness.
This dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. So, are you ready to dig into a bowl of these smoky, sweet, and savory cowboy baked beans? 🤠🔥