Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together savory meats and beans for a satisfying, protein‑rich dish that’s warm and filling. The combination of bacon and ground beef gives depth and richness, while the mix of different beans adds texture and fiber. The sauce — with a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of spice — gives a flavor complexity that feels hearty and homey. And because most of the work is done by the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it until mealtime.

Ingredients

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

Thick‑cut bacon, cut into pieces
Ground beef
Small onion, diced
Chili beans (canned, do not drain)
Kidney beans (canned, drained)
Black beans (canned, drained)
Steak sauce (e.g. A.1. Sauce)
Brown sugar
Ketchup
Apple cider vinegar
Ground cumin
Red pepper flakes
Ground black pepper
Cayenne pepper

Directions

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper‑towel‑lined plate; reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease.
In the same skillet with the reserved grease, brown the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is tender — about 5 minutes.
Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture, along with the bacon and all remaining ingredients (beans, sauces, spices, etc.) into a slow cooker and stir to combine.
Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours (or on HIGH for 1 to 2 hours). Stir before serving.
Serve warm — these beans are great as a main dish or a hearty side, especially with cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: about 10 people (as a side dish)
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~3 hours (slow cooker on LOW)
Total time: ~3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper.
Mix up the beans — use pinto, navy, or cannellini beans depending on what you have on hand.
Add chopped smoked sausage, hot dogs, or a splash of liquid smoke for extra smokiness and depth.

Storage/Reheating

Let the beans cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
These beans also freeze well — store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How many people does this recipe serve?

This recipe makes about 10 servings when served as a side dish.

Can I make this without meat to keep it vegetarian?

Yes. Omit the bacon and beef, and use additional beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

What can I serve this dish with?

It pairs well with cornbread, rice, grilled meats, or a fresh green salad. It’s a great addition to BBQ spreads or potluck tables.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely. Omit the red pepper flakes and cayenne for a milder version, or add diced jalapeños for more heat.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker — can I make this on the stove or in the oven?

Yes. Simmer the mixture on the stovetop in a large pot over low heat for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Is this recipe freezer‑friendly?

Yes. Cool the beans completely and store them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.

Can I reduce the sweetness if I prefer savory beans?

Yes. Simply cut down the brown sugar and ketchup, and increase the vinegar or spices to taste.

Can I make this recipe spicier for a stronger flavor?

You can! Add more cayenne, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce. Smoked paprika or chili powder also adds depth and heat.

Is it okay to drain the chili beans before using them?

No. The recipe uses the chili beans with their sauce, which adds flavor and moisture.

Can I use different beans than those listed?

Yes. Feel free to swap in beans like pinto, navy, or white beans based on your preference or pantry availability.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Steakhouse Cowboy Baked Beans are a delicious, filling, and low-effort way to feed a crowd or make a meal ahead of time. With rich, smoky flavors and a satisfying texture, they’re as at home at a summer barbecue as they are on a chilly night indoors. Whether you enjoy them as a side or a full meal, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.