Name: Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small yellow or white onion, diced; 1 small green bell pepper, diced; 1 lb lean ground beef; 3 (15 oz) cans northern beans, drained; 3 (15 oz) cans red kidney beans, drained; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 cup ketchup; 3 tsp white vinegar; 2 tsp yellow mustard

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings together ground beef, two types of beans, and a sweet-tangy sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. This slow-cooked favorite is perfect for potlucks, casual gatherings, or a satisfying family dinner any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cowboy Beans are a classic crowd-pleaser: sweet, savory, meaty, and filling. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the ingredients to meld into a rich, flavorful dish with minimal effort. It makes a large batch, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or storing for later. Plus, it’s customizable and freezer-friendly. Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 small yellow or white onion, diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
1 pound lean ground beef
3 (15-ounce) cans northern beans, drained
3 (15-ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup ketchup
3 teaspoons white vinegar
2 teaspoons yellow mustard

Directions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the onion and green bell pepper until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a slow cooker.
In the same skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and add to the slow cooker.
Add the northern beans, kidney beans, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, and mustard. Stir thoroughly to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Stir before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 servings. Total preparation and cooking time is about 4 hours and 15 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep and 4 hours of slow cooking.

Variations

Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Use different beans like pinto or black beans for a variation in texture and flavor.
Swap brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different kind of sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm gently on the stove over low heat. This dish also freezes well—cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for about 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

What’s a good substitute for northern beans?

Cannellini beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely—just omit the beef and use plant-based meat or add more veggies.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it has a sweet and tangy profile. Add spice if desired with hot sauce or peppers.

Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes, prep everything and store in the fridge overnight, then start cooking the next day.

How do I freeze cowboy beans?

Let the beans cool completely, portion into containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with cowboy beans?

They pair well with cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Yes, but cook and drain them beforehand. You’ll need about 1.5 cups of cooked beans per can.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If it’s too liquidy, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Are cowboy beans gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure your mustard and ketchup brands are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cowboy Beans are a reliable go-to for hearty, comforting meals that feed a crowd. With rich, sweet-and-savory flavors and a hands-off cooking process, it’s perfect for busy days, family dinners, or potluck gatherings. Once you try it, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your rotation.

Emma