Slow-Cooked Cowboy Beans: A Hearty Summer Favorite

Nothing says summer in America quite like a backyard cookout or a breezy picnic at the park. And if you’re anything like me—raised on the idea that the best meals simmer slowly and feed a crowd—then Cowboy Beans are right up your alley.

Inspired by hearty chuckwagon meals once served on the range, this dish brings together bold flavors and simple ingredients. Imagine tender ground beef, smoky bacon, and four types of beans mingling with sweet, tangy, and spicy notes—all slow-cooked in your CrockPot while you kick back and relax. It’s the kind of dish my grandmother would serve on long summer days, letting the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while she enjoyed a glass of iced tea on the porch.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, feeding hungry teens, or meal-prepping for the week, these CrockPot Cowboy Beans are a must-try.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless slow cooking – Your CrockPot handles the heavy lifting.
• Feeds a crowd – Makes 8 hearty servings.
• Flavor-packed – Bacon, beef, and a sweet-tangy-spicy sauce.
• Perfect for summer – Serve at BBQs, potlucks, or casual dinners.
• Flexible – Easy to make gluten-free or vegetarian with tweaks.

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What you will need + Substitutions

Here’s everything you need to round up your own pot of cowboy beans:

Proteins:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
  Substitute: Turkey bacon for a lighter version or omit for vegetarian.
• 1 lb ground beef
  Substitute: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.

Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, diced
  • Substitution: Use shallots, green onions, or 1 tsp onion powder.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Substitution: Use ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tbsp garlic paste.

Beans:

• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) baked beans, undrained
  Tip: Use vegetarian baked beans for a meat-free version.

Sauce Base:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
  • Substitution: Use tomato sauce + 1 tbsp sugar or barbecue sauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • Substitution: Use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar.
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
  • Substitution: Use Dijon mustard or 1 tsp mustard powder.
• 1 tsp chili powder
  • Substitution: Use smoked paprika, cayenne (spicier), or omit.
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions (With Tips!)

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain.
Tip: Save a tablespoon of bacon fat for the next step to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Beef & Onion

In the same skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion. Break up the beef and sauté until browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Tip: Don’t rush this step—deep browning adds flavor.

Step 3: Combine in the CrockPot

Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in all drained beans (except the baked beans). Add the baked beans with their sauce.

Step 4: Stir in Sauces and Spices

Mix in ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, and the reserved bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

• On low for 6–7 hours, or
• On high for 3–4 hours

Stir before serving to ensure all flavors are well combined.

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Topping Ideas for Extra Flavor

• 🧀 Shredded cheddar cheese
• 🌿 Fresh chopped parsley or green onions
• 🌶️ Hot sauce for spice lovers
• 🥣 Sour cream for a creamy contrast
• 🌽 Roasted corn kernels for sweetness and color

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg

Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and substitutions used.

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Storage & Reheating

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat individual servings with a splash of water.
• Stovetop: Simmer in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally.

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Ingredient Substitutions Recap

• Bacon → Turkey Bacon: Leaner smoky flavor.
• Ground Beef → Ground Turkey: Lighter protein.
• Pinto Beans → Black Beans: Similar texture.
• Ketchup → Barbecue Sauce: Smokier flavor.
• Brown Sugar → Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener.

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What to Serve With Cowboy Beans

• Cornbread or biscuits – Perfect for soaking up that sweet, smoky sauce.
• Grilled hot dogs or sausages – A classic BBQ pairing.
• Coleslaw or cucumber salad – Offers a refreshing, cool contrast.
• Grilled corn on the cob – A summer staple!
• Roasted potatoes or fries – For an indulgent plate.
• Iced Tea: Refreshing, classic pairing.

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FAQs

These CrockPot Cowboy Beans are a sweet, smoky, and hearty dish with ground beef, bacon, and a trio of beans, slow-cooked to perfection. Inspired by your love for savory, comforting meals (like the Sweet & Savory Korean Beef and Creamy Chicken & Bell Pepper Burrito Wraps) and bean-based dishes (like the Tex-Mex Black Bean & Quinoa Bowl), this recipe is a must-try. Try it with shredded cheddar on top, pair with cornbread, and share your experience in the comments below. Happy slow-cooking, and enjoy every smoky, satisfying bite!