Cowboy Baked Beans

Cowboy Baked Beans are hearty, sweet–savory, and loaded with flavor—everything you want in a rustic side dish (or even a full meal). Ground beef adds richness, Worcestershire and brown sugar bring depth, and the onions and bell peppers round out the texture. It’s a perfect potluck dish, camping recipe, or easy weeknight bake that comes together quickly and feeds a crowd. Serve it warm with cornbread, burgers, or grilled meats for a true cowboy-style feast.

Ingredients

  • One 28-oz can Bush’s Baked Beans
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon onion & herb seasoning
  • 1/4 cup minced onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell peppers

Directions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces.
  2. Stir in Worcestershire, brown sugar, onion & herb seasoning, and minced onions.
  3. Cook 5 minutes more, until onions are soft and mixture is well combined.
  4. In a baking dish, mix the beef mixture with the baked beans.
  5. Add chopped onions and green bell peppers; stir to distribute.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  7. Cover dish and bake 30 minutes, until bubbly and peppers are tender.
  8. Let rest a couple minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: ~300 kcal per serving | Servings: 6

Tips

  • For extra smoky flavor, add a splash of BBQ sauce or a handful of chopped cooked bacon.
  • Let the beans cool slightly—they thicken as they stand.

FAQ

Can I make this with sausage instead of ground beef?
Absolutely—smoked sausage or chorizo adds great flavor.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes—combine ingredients and cook on low 3–4 hours.

Can I add heat?
Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

Do leftovers reheat well?
Very well—flavors deepen even more the next day.

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