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### **Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Meat:**
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a bit of the grease in the pan. Add the ground beef and onion to the skillet and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. **Mix the Beans and Sauce:**
In a large mixing bowl (or directly in a baking dish), combine all three types of beans, the cooked ground beef and onions, crispy bacon, ketchup, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder. Stir until everything is well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Bake:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly caramelized around the edges.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Let the beans cool for a few minutes before serving. They thicken as they rest and are even better the next day!
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### **Why You’ll Love Cowboy Baked Beans**
– **Hearty enough to be a main dish** – Serve with cornbread or a green salad and dinner is done.
– **Feeds a crowd** – This is a go-to for parties, potlucks, and big family gatherings.
– **Packed with flavor** – Sweet, smoky, tangy, and savory all at once.
– **Easy to make ahead** – Tastes even better after a night in the fridge!
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### **Variations and Tips:**
– **Make it spicy**: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
– **Add bell peppers**: For a little color and extra veggie power.
– **Try it in the slow cooker**: After browning the beef and bacon, toss everything in the slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours.
– **Vegetarian version**: Skip the meat and add chopped mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.
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### **Final Thoughts:**
Cowboy Baked Beans are one of those “set it and forget it” dishes that always delivers. They’re rustic, hearty, and full of that smoky-sweet BBQ flavor everyone craves. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just making dinner for the family, this dish brings everyone to the table with a smile (and probably seconds).
Let me know if you try it — and if your crew is as obsessed as mine is. 🤠🍽️
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Want a printable version or a crockpot-only version of the recipe? I’d be happy to put that together too!
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