This easy Crockpot Cowboy Beans recipe is a tasty mix of beans, ground beef, and sweet BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy meal without the fuss of endless cooking!
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love how I can just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer while I relax. It’s a winner at family gatherings too! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the hearty base for the dish. If you want a healthier or lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, substitute with crumbled tempeh or lentils.
Beans: Use a mix of canned beans for a nice variety. If you can’t find northern beans, feel free to double up on pinto or kidney beans. Canned black beans work too for a different take!
Barbecue Sauce: My favorite is a smoky or tangy BBQ sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, look for sugar-free versions, or even make your own quick mix with ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is better for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, dried onion flakes and garlic powder can work as well. Just adjust the ratios to taste.
How Do You Make Ground Beef Perfection?
Cooking the ground beef is crucial for bringing out flavors. Follow these steps to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add a little oil if your beef is very lean.
- Add the diced onion and garlic while browning the beef. This way, all those flavors meld together.
- Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft—about 7-10 minutes.
- Don’t forget to drain off excess fat; it helps prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
Remember, the better the initial flavors, the more delicious your final dish will be!
Easy Crockpot Cowboy Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time to cook the beef and mix everything together. After that, you’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a great recipe for a busy day, just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat after cooking to keep your beans nice and healthy!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked ground beef mixture into your crockpot. Next, add in the kidney beans, pinto beans, and northern beans. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans first to get rid of any extra sodium from the cans!
3. Add the Flavor:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. Sprinkle in the black pepper, salt, and chili powder if you want a little kick. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
4. Mix and Add Liquid:
Pour in 1/2 cup of water or beef broth to keep the mixture moist. Stir all the ingredients together until everything is nicely mixed.
5. Let It Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re using low heat, let it go for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting will do the trick in 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is bubbly and thick!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once your cowboy beans are done cooking, give them a good stir. Serve them warm and enjoy! They pair wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice.
This simple crockpot cowboy beans recipe is hearty, flavorful, and super easy to put together—perfect for busy days or a comforting meal. Enjoy your delightful creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for kidney, pinto, and northern beans, you can substitute with any of your favorite beans such as black beans or cannellini beans. Just keep the overall quantity the same!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and substitute with an equal amount of cooked lentils or diced mushrooms for extra heartiness. You can also add more vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to thaw before reheating!
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Beans?
Cowboy beans are versatile! They pair perfectly with cornbread, rice, or even in a tortilla wrap. You could also top them with cheese, sour cream, or diced green onions for extra flavor!
