These Easy Crock Pot BBQ Cowboy Beans are packed with flavor! You’ll enjoy tender beans mixed with sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, sausage, and a hint of spice. Perfect for gatherings!
Whenever I make these beans, everyone asks for the recipe. They’re super simple to prepare since the crock pot does all the work. Just set it and relax while the magic happens! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baked Beans: These provide the base for the dish. For convenience, canned baked beans are perfect. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own baked beans using navy or great northern beans and your favorite spices.
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa is my go-to choice for a smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works too. For a vegetarian twist, try adding more beans or some diced veggies like bell peppers instead.
Barbecue Sauce: Your sauce can really change the taste of the dish. I like a sweet and tangy sauce—try using different flavors or even homemade sauce if you have the time. If you’re avoiding sugar, choose a sugar-free BBQ sauce instead.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. If you’re keen on spice, keep it in! But if you prefer a milder dish, you can skip it or use a pinch of paprika instead.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Ingredients?
Getting rich flavors in your Cowboy Beans is all about layering tastes. First, don’t rush the cooking time! Low and slow is the name of the game here. When using the crock pot, let the beans cook for a longer duration on low heat. This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
- For better onion flavor, sauté them in a bit of oil before adding them to the pot. This step caramelizes the onions, giving a richer taste.
- Mix your barbecue sauce and other wet ingredients in a separate bowl first to ensure they’re evenly combined before pouring them over the beans.
- Taste towards the end of cooking and adjust seasoning. Sometimes, a little extra salt or sweetness can make a big difference!
Easy Crock Pot BBQ Cowboy Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beans:
- 2 (15 oz) cans baked beans (about 30 oz total)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
For the Sausage and Flavoring:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
For the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crock pot. Just mix the ingredients, set your timer, and let the magic happen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Beans:
In a large crock pot, combine the baked beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Make sure to drain and rinse the kidney and pinto beans first to reduce excess sodium.
2. Add the Sausage and Onion:
Next, toss in the sliced smoked sausage and diced onion into the crock pot. These add a delicious, hearty flavor to the dish.
3. Mix Your Sauce:
In a small bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. This mixture will be the secret sauce that makes your beans amazing!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and sausage. Stir everything together well so that all the ingredients are nicely coated in the sauce.
5. Cook It!
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The beans should be tender and the flavors should meld beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Cowboy Beans warm, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy this hearty dish at your next family gathering or barbecue!
Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Crock Pot BBQ Cowboy Beans!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot BBQ Cowboy Beans
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the beans based on your preference. Black beans or navy beans can be great substitutes, just ensure to rinse and drain them if using canned varieties.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the smoked sausage and incorporating more beans or vegetables. Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze These Cowboy Beans?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Cowboy Beans! Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for serving.
