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Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Cowboy Beef and Beans

A simple and hearty dish made with ground beef, baked beans, and barbecue sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Add more onions for extra flavor if desired.
  • 1 can (28 ounces) canned baked beans Use your favorite brand of baked beans.
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce Choose a barbecue sauce that matches your taste preference.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Lightly grease the slow cooker insert if desired for easy cleanup.
  2. Add the raw ground beef to the bottom of the slow cooker and break it up a little with a spoon.
  3. Scatter the diced onion over the top of the beef.
  4. Pour the canned baked beans over the beef and onion, then pour the barbecue sauce on top.
Cooking
  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.
  2. When done, ensure the beef is fully cooked and the onions are tender.
  3. Stir well to break up the beef completely and combine everything into a thick, hearty mixture.
  4. Taste and serve hot.

Notes

Serve over rice, with cornbread, or use as a filling for burritos. This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. To add a kick, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives or add more beans.