Get ready to saddle up for a taste sensation with these Slow Cooker Steakhouse Cowboy Baked Beans! Packed with hearty ingredients like bacon, ground beef, and a variety of beans, these baked beans are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor and cowboy charm. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a potluck dinner, or simply craving some down-home comfort food, these beans are sure to hit the spot. Let’s rustle up some cowboy goodness with this irresistible recipe!

Ingredients:

• ½ lb. thick-cut bacon, cut into pieces
• ½ lb. ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 15 oz cans chili beans (do not drain)
• 1 15 oz can kidney beans, drained
• 1 15 oz can black beans, drained
• ⅔ cup A.1. Sauce
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup HEINZ Ketchup
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet using a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Discard all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease and return the skillet to the stovetop.
2. Brown the ground beef and diced onion in the remaining bacon grease until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the cooked ground beef mixture, bacon, and all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Before serving, give the beans a final stir and adjust seasoning if necessary. Enjoy these flavorful cowboy baked beans as a delicious side dish or as a main course!

Prep Time: 10 min Cooking Time: 3 hr (on LOW) or 1 hr (on HIGH) Total Time: 3 hr 10 min (on LOW) or 1 hr 10 min (on HIGH) Servings: 10

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Serving Suggestions: Serve these Slow Cooker Steakhouse Cowboy Baked Beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats such as steak, ribs, or chicken. They also make a delicious topping for baked potatoes or a filling main course when served with cornbread or rice.
2. Garnish Options: Enhance the presentation and flavor of the baked beans by garnishing them with chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese before serving. These additional touches add a pop of color and extra flavor to the dish.
3. Make-Ahead Convenience: These baked beans can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving, making them a convenient option for meal planning and entertaining. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer-term storage.
4. Reheating Instructions: To reheat the baked beans, simply transfer them to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish and warm them over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
5. Freezing Option: If you have leftovers or want to prepare a batch of baked beans for future use, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze the beans in portion-sized servings for easy reheating later on.
6. Thawing and Reheating Frozen Beans: When ready to enjoy the frozen baked beans, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or defrost them in the microwave using the defrost setting. Once thawed, reheat the beans following the same instructions as for reheating fresh beans.
7. Batch Cooking: Consider doubling or tripling the recipe to make a larger batch of baked beans to enjoy throughout the week or to serve at larger gatherings and events. Leftover baked beans can also be repurposed into other dishes, such as chili, soups, or casseroles.
8. Storage Tips: Store any leftover baked beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the beans in individual portions or larger batches for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date of preparation for easy reference.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of beans in this recipe? Yes, you can customize the bean selection to suit your preferences. While the recipe calls for chili beans, kidney beans, and black beans, feel free to substitute with other varieties such as pinto beans, navy beans, or cannellini beans.
2. Can I make these baked beans ahead of time? Absolutely! These baked beans are perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, allow the beans to cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a convenient and delicious meal or side dish.
3. Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the beans? Yes, you can adjust the spiciness to your preference by varying the amount of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper used in the recipe. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more to reach your desired level of heat.