Hearty and Savory Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a pot of simmering cowboy beans. The rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and slow cooking process combine to create a dish that warms both the body and the soul. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a batch of delicious, savory slow cooker cowboy beans that are sure to become a family favorite. So grab your trusty slow cooker and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These slow cooker cowboy beans are not your average side dish. They are packed with flavor, thanks to a combination of smoky bacon, tender beans, and a savory sauce. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• The slow cooker does all the work for you. Simply set it and forget it!
• The flavors develop over time, resulting in a rich and complex taste.
• This recipe is versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side.
• It’s budget-friendly and can easily be scaled up to feed a crowd.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound dried pinto beans
• 6 cups water
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make a delicious batch of slow cooker cowboy beans:

1. Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and remove any debris. Place the beans in the slow cooker.
2. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker with the beans.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the beans in the slow cooker.
6. Add enough water to the slow cooker to cover the beans by about an inch.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the beans are tender.
8. Once the beans are cooked, give them a good stir to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. Serve the slow cooker cowboy beans hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Expert Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your slow cooker cowboy beans turn out perfectly:

• Soak the pinto beans overnight before cooking to help reduce cooking time.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid from the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• For a smokier flavor, add a few dashes of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other ingredients such as diced bell peppers, jalapenos, or even cooked ground beef.
• Leftover cowboy beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Variations and Substitutions

If you’d like to put your own spin on this classic recipe, here are a few variations and substitutions to consider:

• Instead of pinto beans, you can use kidney beans, black beans, or a combination of beans.
• If you don’t have bacon on hand, you can substitute with diced ham or smoked sausage.
• To make the dish vegetarian-friendly, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water.
• For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker cowboy beans are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:

• Serve the beans as a side dish alongside grilled meats, such as barbecued ribs or juicy burgers.
• Pair them with cornbread or fresh crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beans and broil until melted and bubbly.
• For a Tex-Mex twist, serve the beans in tortillas with your favorite toppings, such as guacamole, salsa, and cilantro.
• Enjoy the beans on their own for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about slow cooker cowboy beans:

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

While you can use canned beans in a pinch, the flavor and texture won’t be the same as using dried beans. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the beans to become tender.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Slow cooker cowboy beans freeze well and can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Follow the same steps, but instead of cooking on low heat for 8-10 hours, cook on high pressure for about 45 minutes, followed by a natural release.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker cowboy beans are a true comfort food that brings together the flavors of smoky bacon, tender beans, and a rich sauce. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a main course, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and savory meal that will transport you to the wild west!

We hope you give this recipe a try and that it becomes a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to share your experience with us and let us know how you enjoyed these delicious slow cooker cowboy beans. Happy cooking!