Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans bring hearty, comforting flavors to the table, making them a perfect option for any gathering or family meal. This dish combines various beans with savory ground beef and zesty barbecue sauce, creating a delightful blend that’s sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

These cowboy beans take minimal effort to prepare while delivering maximum flavor. They are packed with protein and fiber, making them a filling choice for lunch or dinner. Perfect for potlucks, barbecue parties, or a cozy night in, this recipe allows you to sit back and let your slow cooker do the work. With its rich taste and simple ingredients, you will find this dish a favorite in your household.

Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans are perfect for gatherings, combining beans with savory ground beef and zesty barbecue sauce.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup barbecue sauce Choose a quality barbecue sauce for optimal flavor.
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder Adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Increase for a smokier flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Cooking

• In a slow cooker, combine the cooked beef, beans, barbecue sauce, onion, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Serve warm.

Notes

For added flavors, serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Store in an airtight container for up to five days in the fridge, or freeze for up to three months. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove.

Keyword Cowboy Beans, Hearty Meals, Potluck Dishes, Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans, Slow Cooker Recipes

How to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked beef, beans, barbecue sauce, onion, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Serve warm.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans are versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve them on their own, over rice, or with cornbread for a classic pairing. For a delightful twist, serve these beans in a baked potato or inside taco shells. You can also top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

How to Store Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

To store Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place the cooled beans in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months. Reheating is easy; simply microwave or warm on the stove until heated through.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans Perfect

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and reduce excess grease.
• Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika to your preference. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or corn for additional flavors and nutrients.

Flavor Variations

You can easily customize Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans based on your taste. For a sweeter profile, try adding a touch of brown sugar or honey to the barbecue sauce. If you prefer a smokier flavor, increase the amount of smoked paprika or add liquid smoke. Vegetarian options can also be created by omitting the beef and increasing the variety of beans or adding lentils instead.

Pro Tips for Success

• Brown the Meat: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker builds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Use Quality Barbecue Sauce: The choice of barbecue sauce can significantly affect the overall taste. Choose one that you enjoy or makes your taste buds dance.
• Check for Doneness: As all slow cookers vary in temperature, check your beans for doneness before serving. They should be tender and flavorful after the cooking time.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Can I make Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef. Adding more varieties of beans or lentils will provide the same hearty texture. You can also add extra vegetables for added nutrients.

How can I make this recipe in an instant pot?
To adapt this recipe for an instant pot, brown the beef using the sauté function, then add all the ingredients except for the beans. Cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes, allow for a natural release, and then stir in the beans before serving.

Can I add more beans?
Absolutely! You can add an additional can of any of your favorite beans. Black beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas will all work well in this recipe. Just ensure you drain and rinse them before adding.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans are a delightful and robust dish that everyone will enjoy. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and suitable for any occasion. You can adjust the recipe to fit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile choice. Try making this hearty meal for your next gathering or even a simple family dinner; you won’t be disappointed!