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.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

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)

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

Return the cooked bacon and ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic.

Step 5

Add the pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir until combined.

Step 6

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

Step 9

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy with warm cornbread or over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2125.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2276.0

Total Fat 111.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 41.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 367.1mg	0%
Sodium 5946.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 178.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 57.3g	0%
Total Sugars 25.3g
Protein 152.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 425.7mg	0%
Iron 26.3mg	0%
Potassium 5439.7mg	0%

*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: 43.0%

Protein: 26.2%

Carbs: 30.8%