Description
This slow cooker cowboy beans recipe is a smoky, sweet, and hearty bean stew loaded with ground beef, sweet onion, and four types of beans. It’s an easy, comforting dish perfect for BBQs, potlucks, chilly nights, or a satisfying weeknight dinner with leftovers to spare.
Ingredients
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450 g lean ground beef (90% lean)
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1 large sweet onion, chopped
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110 g packed brown sugar (½ cup)
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60 ml ketchup (¼ cup)
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45 ml cider vinegar (3 tbsp)
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30 ml yellow mustard (2 tbsp)
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1 can (450 g) butter beans, drained
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1 can (450 g) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
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1 can (425 g) of pork and beans
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1 can (430 g) lima beans, rinsed and drained
Instructions
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Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
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Transfer beef and onion to a 3-quart slow cooker.
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In a bowl, mix brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and mustard. Pour into slow cooker.
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Add all beans and stir until well combined.
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Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or high for 2–3 hours, until hot and flavorful.
Notes
Add liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Use black beans or pinto beans as substitutions.
Double the beef or toss in bacon for a meatier version.
Remove the lid near the end for a thicker consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (on low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American