Tremendous Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans Feast

Tremendous Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans Feast is an ideal choice for your next family gathering or potluck. This hearty dish combines ground beef, crispy bacon, and a blend of savory beans with a rich, tangy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious results!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cans (15 oz each) pork and beans
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. Set the beef aside.
2. Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving a small amount of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper to the skillet with the remaining bacon grease. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a large slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef, crispy bacon, sautéed onions and bell pepper, pork and beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans.
5. Add the Sauces and Seasonings: Stir in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve: Serve the cowboy beans hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: 7-8 hours
• Servings: 6-8
• Calorie Count: 350 kcal per serving (1 cup)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with a plant-based alternative and use vegetarian beans.
• Extra Smoky: Use smoked bacon and add a touch of liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor.
• Sweet and Tangy: Adjust the brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to taste for a sweeter or tangier dish.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of beans?
   Yes, feel free to substitute any of the beans with your favorites or what you have on hand.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat before serving.
3. How do I adjust the spice level?
   Increase or decrease the chili powder and add hot sauce or pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
4. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   Serve with cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
6. Can I cook this on the stove top?
   Yes, cook in a large pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until all the flavors meld together, about 1-2 hours.
7. What should I do if the beans are too thick?
   Add a little water or extra barbecue sauce to reach your desired consistency.
8. Can I use homemade beans?
   Yes, if you prefer to use homemade beans, adjust the recipe to match the amount needed.
9. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Use plant-based ground meat and vegetarian beans. Ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian.
10. What type of barbecue sauce works best?
    Use your favorite barbecue sauce or a smoky variety for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Tremendous Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans Feast is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings and potlucks. With its blend of savory beef, bacon, and beans, all simmered in a tangy sauce, it’s sure to be a hit at your next event. Enjoy the convenience of the slow cooker and the satisfaction of a delicious, home-cooked meal!

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