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Best Cowboy Beans

A delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that come together effortlessly, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main, Side
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups dried pinto beans
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Soak the dried pinto beans overnight in plenty of water.
  2. Drain and rinse the soaked beans under cold water.
  3. In a large pot, combine the rinsed beans with 4 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover, cooking until the beans are tender, about 1 hour.
  4. In a separate skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the cooked beans along with the crumbled bacon, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  7. Taste the beans and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve warm, on their own or alongside your favorite grilled meats.

Notes

For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the bean mixture.