These cowboy baked beans are the ultimate comfort food! With a mix of hearty beans, sweet barbecue sauce, and a touch of spice, they make the perfect side dish for any gathering.
I love whipping these up for a picnic! They’re so easy to make, and trust me, everyone wants the recipe. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a dish that’s both tasty and feels like a warm hug?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baked Beans: Canned baked beans are a huge time saver! I typically use Bush’s since they’re rich and flavorful. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own beans from scratch or use vegetarian or low-sodium options based on your diet.
Bacon: Bacon adds a great smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, try adding smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory taste. Turkey bacon is another lean substitute if you want less fat.
Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness when sautéed. If you want a milder flavor, use shallots or green onions instead. Red onions also work, bringing a bit more bite.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought brand will do! If you prefer homemade, a mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices can make a quick substitute. For a spicier kick, opt for a spicy barbecue sauce.
How Can I Make Sure My Cowboy Baked Beans Are Flavorful and Well-Cooked?
Getting that perfect flavor in cowboy baked beans is all about combining your ingredients well! Start by making sure you sauté the onions until they’re nice and soft before adding them to the mix. This enhances their sweetness and flavor.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for that nice texture and flavor base.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Baking uncovered allows the sauce to thicken beautifully and creates that delightful caramelization on top.
- If possible, taste the mixture before baking. Adjust sweetness and seasoning to your liking!
Best Ever Easy Cowboy Baked Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups (about 2 cans) baked beans (such as Bush’s or your favorite brand)
- 1/2 pound bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then 45 to 60 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll spend about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes preparing these delicious cowboy baked beans!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the beans!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. The bacon will add a wonderful flavor to your beans! Once it’s crispy, take it out using a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Make sure to keep that flavorful bacon fat in the skillet!
3. Sauté the Onion:
Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté the onion until it becomes nice and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will add a lovely sweetness to your beans!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix the baked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed onions, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine all these delicious flavors together!
5. Bake the Beans:
Transfer the bean mixture to a baking dish or casserole. Spread it out evenly and pop it into the oven. Bake uncovered for about 45 to 60 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken and become bubbly—so keep an eye on it!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, take the beans out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, serve them up and enjoy! These cowboy baked beans are the perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or just a cozy family dinner!
Enjoy your delicious and hearty cowboy baked beans!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cowboy Baked Beans
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While baked beans are classic, you can mix in other types of beans like kidney, pinto, or black beans for added texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using dried beans.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make vegetarian cowboy baked beans, simply omit the bacon and use a smoky flavored liquid smoke or smoked paprika to maintain that savory taste. You can also add mushrooms or smoked tempeh for extra depth.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pot on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
