Ranch Beans

Dive into the hearty, smoky goodness of Ranch Beans, a classic, flavor-packed dish perfect for family dinners, cookouts, or potlucks. This slow-simmered recipe starts with tender, soaked pinto beans and layers of rich flavor, thanks to crispy bacon, sautéed onions, garlic, and a bold blend of spices including smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Tomato paste and diced tomatoes create a savory base, while beef broth enhances the heartiness of this comforting meal. With a low-and-slow cooking method, the beans soak up every ounce of flavor, making it a soul-satisfying side or main dish. Serve these cowboy-inspired beans warm and garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of freshness. Packed with smoky, spicy, and savory notes, these ranch beans are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:195 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried pinto beans
• 8 cups water
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 15-ounce can canned diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano, dried
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans.

Step 2

Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours.

Step 3

Drain and rinse the beans, then set them aside.

Step 4

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon, chop it into small pieces, and set aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.

Step 5

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the diced tomatoes (with liquid), beef broth, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 8

Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot, along with the chopped bacon.

Step 9

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 10

Check the beans for tenderness after 2.5 hours. If they are still firm, continue to cook until they reach your desired texture.

Step 11

Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or spices, if needed, before serving.

Step 12

Serve warm as a side dish or a hearty main, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3964.5 grams (3964.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1230

Total Fat 36.10g	46%
Saturated Fat 10.60g	53%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.70g
Cholesterol 56mg	19%
Sodium 8477mg	369%
Total Carbohydrate 157.50g	57%
Dietary Fiber 54.10g	193%
Total Sugars 22.50g
Protein 75.40g	151%

Vitamin D 8IU	39%
Calcium 600mg	46%
Iron 18mg	102%
Potassium 4182mg	89%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 25.9%

Protein: 24.0%

Carbs: 50.1%