Okay, y’all, let me tell you about my Kielbasa Cowboy Beans. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a love story! I’ve been making these for years, and every time, I swear they get better. It’s the perfect blend of smoky kielbasa, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and sweet-and-tangy beans. I could eat the entire pot myself (and sometimes, I’m not gonna lie, I get pretty close!)1.
Why I’m Hooked on These Beans
- Hearty and Filling: This is a meal in itself! Add some cornbread, and you’re set1.
- Flavor Explosion: The kielbasa, bacon, and BBQ sauce create a smoky-sweet flavor that’s irresistible.
- Easy to Customize: Throw in your favorite veggies or switch up the beans to make it your own.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a cozy night in.
Let’s Get Cooking: My Kielbasa Cowboy Beans Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Yields: About 8 servings
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ring (13.9 ounces) kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds1
- 1 pound ground beef1
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled1
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (approximately 1 cup)1
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (approximately 1 cup)1
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt1
- ½ teaspoon onion powder1
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar1
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) baked beans (I love Bush’s Original)1
- ½ cup (140 g) barbecue sauce (use your fave!)1
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard1
My Step-by-Step Guide
- Get that oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)1.
- Brown the Kielbasa: In a 4-quart, heavy-bottom, oven-safe pot (like a Dutch oven) over medium heat, add the kielbasa slices. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Then, transfer the kielbasa to a plate and set it aside1.
- Beef it Up: Add the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, garlic salt, and onion powder to the same pot. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 7-9 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease1.
- Combine and Bake: Add the browned kielbasa, cooked bacon, brown sugar, baked beans, barbecue sauce, and Dijon mustard to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined1.
- Bake it Low and Slow: Cover the pot and bake for 1 hour. The beans should be hot, bubbly, and thickened when they’re done1.
- Serve Warm: Get ready to devour!
Serving Suggestions
- Cornbread on the Side: A classic pairing!
- Topped with Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- With a dollop of sour cream: Adds a cool and tangy contrast.
- As a filling for baked potatoes: A hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips and Customizations
- Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
- Veggies galore! Throw in some corn, diced zucchini, or carrots1.
- Swap the meat! Use Andouille sausage, Mexican chorizo, or even pulled pork1.
- Bean variations: Pinto, Great Northern, or black beans would all work well2.
- Make it in a slow cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
FAQs: My Expert Answers
- Can I freeze these beans? Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months3.
- How long do leftovers last? In the fridge, they’re good for about 3-4 days.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Swap the meat for plant-based alternatives, and use vegetarian baked beans.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fat: 20-25g
(Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts
These Kielbasa Cowboy Beans are more than just a meal; they’re a taste of home, a warm hug on a cold day, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, fire up that oven, and get ready to experience some serious bean bliss!
