West Texas Beef Beans
Savor the bold, smoky flavors of West Texas with this hearty Beef and Beans recipe that's perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This one-pot dish combines savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and tender pinto beans simmered in a rich tomato base infused with smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder for a true Southwest flavor profile. With just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s ready in under an hour. Whether served with warm cornbread, over fluffy rice, or simply garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures and spices in every bite. Packed with protein and bursting with rustic charm, West Texas Beef Beans is a must-try for lovers of hearty, homestyle cooking.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then remove the ground beef and set it aside with the bacon.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Return the cooked bacon and ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
Add the pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir until combined.
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy with warm cornbread or over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2276 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 111.1 g | 142% | |
| Saturated Fat | 41.6 g | 208% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 367 mg | 122% | |
| Sodium | 5947 mg | 259% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 178.8 g | 65% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 57.3 g | 205% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.3 g | ||
| Protein | 152.0 g | 304% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 426 mg | 33% | |
| Iron | 26.3 mg | 146% | |
| Potassium | 5440 mg | 116% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
