Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set aside a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish.
Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Brown the Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef, diced onion, and bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Combine the Ingredients
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the baked beans, kidney beans, and black beans. Add the barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix everything until well combined.
Top with Bacon
- Transfer the bean mixture to your prepared casserole dish (if not using an oven-safe skillet). Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the top for extra flavor and crunch.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake the beans uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the mixture is bubbling and slightly thickened.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the beans cool slightly before serving. Pair with grilled meats, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Baked Beans
- Amp Up the Smokiness: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for deeper, smoky flavors.
- Make It Spicy: Include a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and bacon, and substitute with meatless crumbles or extra beans for a plant-based twist.
