Loaded Cowboy Baked Beans

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) baked beans

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup barbecue sauce

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven (Optional):
   Preheat to 350°F (175°C) if baking.

2. Cook the Bacon & Veggies:
   In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving a little bacon fat in the pan.
   Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Mix the Beans:
   In a large bowl, combine baked beans, cooked bacon, sautéed veggies, brown sugar, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

4. Bake (Optional):
   Transfer to a baking dish and bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
   Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking, if desired.

5. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm alongside grilled meats, burgers, or chicken.