This Cowboy Beans and Beef Casserole is a bold, stick-to-your-ribs, one-pan comfort dish that feels like a backyard cookout any time of year. Sweet brown sugar, tangy Worcestershire sauce, and smoky paprika come together for that classic barbecue flavor, while three kinds of beans make it extra hearty with layers of satisfying texture. It bakes up thick, rich, and deeply comforting.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Pork and beans (undrained) | 1 (28 oz) can |
| Kidney beans (drained & rinsed) | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Pinto beans (drained & rinsed) | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Ketchup | ½ cup |
| Barbecue sauce | ⅓ cup |
| Brown sugar (packed) | ¼ cup |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 small |
| Green bell pepper, diced | ½ |
| Yellow mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Vegetable oil or bacon drippings | ½ tsp |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | ½ tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Step 1: Prep & Brown
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and green bell pepper for 7–10 minutes, breaking up the meat until browned and the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Drain off excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Beans & Sauce
Add the pork and beans (with their liquid), kidney beans, and pinto beans to the skillet. Stir in ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbling around the edges.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly and scoops cleanly.
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