Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the classic sweetness of baked beans with the richness of ground beef for a filling, satisfying dish. It’s easy to prepare, cooks in one pan, and can be customized with your favorite spices. The result is a comforting, crowd-pleasing side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or sandwiches.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned baked beans
• Ground beef
• Onion
• Green bell pepper
• Garlic
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or prepare a large skillet if cooking on the stovetop.
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Mix thoroughly and transfer to a baking dish if using the oven.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and thickened, or simmer on the stovetop over low heat for 20–25 minutes.
7. Serve warm as a side dish or main accompaniment.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with cooking and baking time of 25–30 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor. Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. Include diced jalapeños or chili powder for a spicy kick. For a richer taste, stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. These beans can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans other than baked beans?

Yes, kidney beans or pinto beans can be substituted, though flavor may vary.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake or reheat before serving.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add chopped jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce to taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, ensure ketchup and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Can I cook this on the stovetop only?

Yes, simmer the mixture on low heat until thickened instead of baking.

How do I prevent the beans from being too watery?

Cook uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate and thicken the sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, diced carrots, celery, or corn work well.

Can I use leaner beef?

Yes, lean ground beef works; just drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

Conclusion

Cowboy baked beans with ground beef are a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. With tender beans, savory beef, and a rich, smoky-sweet sauce, they’re an easy-to-make side that adds comfort and flavor to your table.

Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

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Hearty cowboy baked beans with savory ground beef, tender beans, and a rich, smoky-sweet sauce. Perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking or stovetop simmering
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 4 cups canned baked beans
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) or prepare a large skillet for stovetop cooking.
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in baked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
5. If using the oven, transfer mixture to a baking dish.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and thickened, or simmer on stovetop over low heat for 20–25 minutes.
7. Serve warm as a side dish or main accompaniment.

Notes

• Add cooked bacon for extra smoky flavor.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Include diced jalapeños or chili powder for spice.
• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for extra richness.
• Cook uncovered to thicken sauce and prevent watery beans.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg