Slow Cooker Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

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Slow Cooker Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef

 Description

 Slow Cooker Cowboy Baked Beans with Ground Beef is a hearty, smoky, and slightly sweet comfort dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or backyard gatherings. This recipe combines savory ground beef with rich, saucy baked beans, creating a thick and flavorful dish that’s both filling and satisfying. As it slow cooks, the flavors deepen—melding the sweetness of the beans with the savory richness of the beef and seasonings. The result is a bold, homestyle dish with a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors that everyone loves.

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans (do not drain)
    • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
    • 1/2 cup ketchup
    • 2 tbsp brown sugar
    • 1 tbsp yellow mustard
    • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 tsp  garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
    • Salt & black pepper to taste
    • Optional: 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

 Instructions

  1. Brown the beef (recommended):
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add to  slow cooker:
    Transfer cooked beef and onions into the slow cooker.
  3. Add beans:
    Pour in baked beans (including sauce).
  4. Mix sauce:
    Add ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stir well:
    Mix everything until fully combined.
  6. Cook:
    • Low: 5–6 hours
    • High: 2–3 hours
  7. Optional bacon finish:
    Stir in crumbled bacon during the last 30 minutes for extra flavor.
  8. Serve:
    Serve hot as a main dish or side.

Notes & Tips

  • Browning beef first adds richer flavor and better texture.
  • Use different types of beans (kidney, pinto) for variation.
  • Adjust sweetness by reducing or increasing brown sugar.
  • Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking—this thickens the sauce.

 Servings

  • Serves: 6–8
  • Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours (low)

Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: 12g

 Benefits

    • High in protein for sustained energy
    • Beans provide fiber for digestion
    • Budget-friendly and great for feeding a crowd
    • Easy one-pot slow cooker meal
    • Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Q&A

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, it’s a leaner option and works just as well.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—flavors improve even more after sitting overnight.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave.

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