These Easy Spicy Cowboy Beans are a fun and hearty side dish! Packed with beans, spices, and a bit of heat, they make a perfect addition to any meal or BBQ.
They’re so quick to whip up! I love that I can toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, they make my taste buds dance with joy! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a smoky richness that’s hard to beat. However, for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even tempeh bacon can work well too. I love the crunch from bacon, but you can skip it for a vegetarian version.
Beans: Pinto beans are traditional, but black beans work great too. You can mix in kidney beans or even chickpeas if you want a different flavor. Canned beans save time, but if you have dry beans on hand, cooking them from scratch enhances the flavor!
Barbecue Sauce: Your choice of barbecue sauce can really change the dish’s flavor. Sweet, tangy, or spicy—pick what you love! If you’re out, mix equal parts ketchup and soy sauce for a quick substitute.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños add heat and freshness. If they’re too spicy, consider using bell peppers instead. Pickled jalapeños could also add a nice tangy twist!
How Do I Get the Beans Flavored Just Right?
Cooking the beans properly lets all the flavors blend beautifully. Start by ensuring your onions are soft and fragrant before adding more ingredients. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use the bacon fat to sauté the onions, as it adds extra flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering process! Giving the beans time to cook helps the spices penetrate, making them taste amazing.
- Always taste as you go. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne or hot sauce to reach your ideal flavor.
Patience is key and adjustments are personal, so make this dish your own!
Easy Spicy Cowboy Beans
Ingredients:
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 fresh jalapeño, sliced thinly (plus more for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in just 30 minutes, you’ll have a lovely dish that’s full of flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Bacon:
First, grab a large skillet or saucepan and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, but don’t toss that lovely bacon fat—leave it right there for flavor!
2. Sautéing the Onion:
Next, add the diced onion to the bacon fat. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This is where your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Adding Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an extra 30 seconds. Just enough to get that garlic smell going—don’t let it burn!
4. Combining the Beans:
Time to add the star ingredients! Put the drained pinto beans and black beans into the pan. Stir gently to mix with the onions and garlic.
5. Mixing in Sauces:
Pour in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, and molasses. Stir everything well, making sure all the beans are coated in that delightful sauce!
6. Spice It Up:
Now, it’s time to add the Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute all those yummy spices throughout the beans.
7. Add Bacon and Jalapeño:
Stir in the crispy bacon pieces and those fresh jalapeño slices. It’s looking good so far!
8. Simmering the Beans:
Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for 15-20 minutes. Just stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and all the flavors meld together. This step will make your beans really shine, so be patient!
9. Final Taste Test:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning or add more spice if you like it hotter. You’ve earned the right to get it just how you want it!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle on some fresh parsley or cilantro and extra jalapeño slices for that pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty, smoky, and spicy cowboy beans as a delightful side or even as a main dish!
Dig in and relish every bite of your delicious cowboy beans! 🌶️
FAQ for Easy Spicy Cowboy Beans
Can I use Turkey Bacon instead of Pork Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. It will add a different flavor but will still complement the beans nicely!
What beans can I use if I don’t have pinto or black beans?
You can really get creative here! Kidney beans, chickpeas, or even cannellini beans work well in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse them if they’re canned!
Can I make these beans vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of bacon fat to sauté the onions. You can also add a splash of liquid smoke for smoky flavor without the meat.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if they seem dry!
