Delight in the smoky and savory flavors of Cowboy Baked Beans, a meaty and hearty dish that is a perennial favorite at barbecues and gatherings. Hailing from Tryon, Nebraska, Joe Sherwood shares his recipe that brings together a variety of beans, ground beef, and bacon, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress all who taste it. The combination of barbecue sauce, molasses, and balsamic vinegar adds a rich and smoky taste to these baked beans, making them an irresistible addition to any meal.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 1 can (16 ounces) butter beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15¾ ounces) pork and beans
- 1 can (15½ ounces) navy beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons ground mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink; drain any excess fat. Stir in the remaining ingredients to combine all the flavors.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Bake the dish, uncovered, at 350°F for 50-60 minutes or until it is heated through and the flavors have melded.
YIELD: 12 servings (¾ cup each)
PREP/BAKE TIME: 25 minutes/50-60 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For added smokiness, consider using hickory-flavored barbecue sauce in the recipe.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapenos to the beans.
TIPS:
- Customize the Cowboy Baked Beans by adding your favorite beans or adjusting the meat-to-bean ratio to suit your taste preferences.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and bacon and add more beans or some diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
In conclusion, Cowboy Baked Beans are a true delight for barbecue lovers, bringing together a medley of beans, ground beef, and bacon in a smoky and savory symphony of flavors. Joe Sherwood’s recipe is a meaty and hearty delight that promises to be a hit at any gathering or cookout.
The combination of various beans, including butter beans, pork and beans, navy beans, and black beans, creates a satisfying texture and a pleasing color palette. The addition of barbecue sauce, molasses, balsamic vinegar, and other seasonings adds depth and richness to the dish, making these baked beans a truly unforgettable side dish.
Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on their own, Cowboy Baked Beans are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The comforting aroma that wafts from the oven as they bake will entice everyone to gather around and savor the flavorful creation.
Joe’s recipe is versatile and easily customizable, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different types of beans, adjust the level of smokiness, or add a hint of spice to suit your palate.
So, why not indulge in the hearty and smoky goodness of Cowboy Baked Beans? Treat your friends and family to this delicious dish at your next barbecue or gathering, and watch as they savor every bite of this delectable creation.
