Description
This Cowboy Baked Beans recipe is a hearty and flavorful side dish, perfect for complementing BBQ dishes, burgers, or grilled meats. It combines savory baked beans with crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and a smoky-sweet sauce made with brown sugar, BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce for a rich, balanced taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Sauce
- 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans (such as Bush’s Best or your preferred brand)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup water (or more if needed)
Bacon and Vegetables
- 1/2 lb (about 8 oz) bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Cook the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the bacon grease in the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions are softened and lightly golden, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the baked beans with their liquid, the cooked bacon, sautéed onions, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Simmer the Beans: Transfer the combined bean mixture to a large saucepan or Dutch oven set over medium heat. Stir in 1/4 cup of water, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are thoroughly heated and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, add additional water one tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve: Taste the beans and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve these flavorful Cowboy Baked Beans as a hearty side with barbecue, burgers, or grilled meats.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, do not skip the smoked paprika.
- You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier beans, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce to customize sweetness and tanginess.
- These beans can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stove.
