Introduction

Crock Pot Cowboy Beans are a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly combines the rich taste of beans with spices, savory meats, and a hint of sweetness. This dish is ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting family dinner. The slow cooker makes preparation incredibly easy, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully while you enjoy your day.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound bacon, chopped
– 2 cans (16 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cans (16 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Time

Prep time for Crock Pot Cowboy Beans takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables and preparing the meat and beans before loading everything into the slow cooker.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is approximately 6 to 8 hours on low heat. The total time involved, including prep time, is about 6 hours and 15 minutes to 8 hours and 15 minutes. This recipe yields around 8 servings, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers during the week.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients for the cowboy beans, ensuring you have beans, meat, and seasonings ready for use.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, mix the cooked meat with the beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, onion, and any additional spices you prefer.

Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat. Allow the mixture to cook for 6 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.

Step 5: Serve the Cowboy Beans

Once cooked, give the beans a good stir and serve hot.

Notes

Note 1: Bean Options

You can use a variety of beans, such as pinto beans, navy beans, or kidney beans, based on your preference.

Note 2: Meat Alternatives

Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or use a combination of meats for added flavor.

Note 3: Adjusting Sweetness

You can modify the amount of brown sugar in the recipe to suit your taste for sweetness.

Note 4: Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Note 5: Serving Suggestions

These cowboy beans pair well with cornbread, rice, or as a side dish for barbecues and picnics.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Cooking beans low and slow allows for maximum flavor infusion and tender texture. This method ensures that the beans absorb all the spices and ingredients over several hours.

Layering Flavors

Start by sautéing your onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor profile of your dish, making it richer and more complex.

Simmering

Simmering the dish allows for a meld of flavors. Keeping the heat low helps the beans cook evenly without becoming mushy.

Deglazing

If you sauté ingredients in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker, deglaze the pan with a bit of liquid. This captures the browned bits that add depth to the flavor.

Using Dried Beans

Opting for dried beans instead of canned can improve texture and flavor. Dried beans need to be soaked and can be cooked directly in the slow cooker for a fresher taste.

FAQ

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans, but the cooking time will be shorter. Add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

How long does it take to cook cowboy beans in a slow cooker?

The cooking time typically ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high, depending on your slow cooker and the specific ingredients used.

Can I add meat to my cowboy beans?

Absolutely! Adding cooked bacon, ground beef, or sausage can enhance the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

What can I serve with cowboy beans?

Cowboy beans pair well with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftover cowboy beans?

Yes, cowboy beans freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Cowboy Beans are a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The combination of flavors from the beans, meats, and spices creates a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a warm and comforting meal that showcases the versatility of your slow cooker.

More recipes suggestions and combination

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Tender pulled chicken slathered in barbecue sauce, served on soft buns, makes for an easy and tasty meal that complements the cowboy beans perfectly.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices offer a colorful and nutritious dish that pairs well with the flavors of the cowboy beans.

Cornbread

A warm slice of cornbread adds a comforting touch to your meal. Its slightly sweet flavor and moist texture balance the spiciness of the cowboy beans.

Coleslaw

A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the hearty cowboy beans, making it a great side option that brightens up the plate.

Sloppy Joes

This classic, messy delight features ground beef in a tangy sauce, creating a filling and satisfying dish that works well alongside the cowboy beans.