Cowboy Beans
Cowboy Beans, also known as Calico Beans, is a hearty, savory-sweet baked bean dish typically made with ground beef, bacon, and a mix of beans like kidney, butter, and pork and beans. It's a staple of American Western and barbecue cuisine, often served at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. The dish gets its name from its rustic, campfire-friendly origins and its colorful mix of beans.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a good source of protein and fiber but is also high in carbohydrates and sodium, with a moderate fat content from the meat. A typical serving provides a substantial amount of iron and potassium, with a calorie count generally ranging from 350 to 450 kcal.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 12 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Potassium | 750 mg |
| Folate | 180 mcg |
| Magnesium | 85 mg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.5 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Cowboy Beans are a classic example of American 'comfort food' that evolved from frontier cooking, designed to be filling and use preserved ingredients. Nutritionally, the combination of beans and meat creates a complete protein profile, making it a particularly satisfying meal.
