Description
If you’re looking for a warm hug on a plate (or perhaps in a bowl), look no further than Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans. This dish is not only delicious but also a lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when you just want to kick back and let the delicious smells waft through your home while someone (ahem, your slow cooker) does all the work for you. Perfect for busy moms, professionals, or anyone balancing life’s endless to-do lists, these beans are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Cowboy Beans:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed and soaked overnight (don’t worry if you forget to soak them; just add more cooking time)
- 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon (because why not add some deliciousness?)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (for that irresistible aroma)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand will work just fine)
- 1/2 cup ketchup (this adds a sweet touch)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (trust me, you want this!)
- 2 teaspoons mustard (yellow or Dijon—your pick)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep Your Beans: If you soaked your beans, drain and rinse them. If you skipped this step, just remember they’ll need some extra time to cook.
- Mix Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the pinto beans, diced ham or bacon, onion, garlic, BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and chicken broth. Stir it all together like you’re creating a flavorful masterpiece.
- Season & Cook: Add salt and pepper to taste. Then, cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Remember, the magic really happens with that low-and-slow method!
- Check & Enjoy: Once the beans are tender, give them a taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and watch your family devour every last bite!
Notes
- Let’s Talk Storage: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my household), keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. These beans also freeze beautifully if you want to batch cook.
- Customize Your Beans: Don’t hesitate to switch up the meat! Ground beef or turkey work equally well, and if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some chorizo for a twist?
- Perfect Pairing: These beans are fantastic on their own, but if you’re feeling fancy, serve them over some cornbread or with a side of coleslaw for a complete meal.