Calico beans and cowboy beans are two popular dishes that are made from beans.

These recipes are known for their rich flavor, high protein content, and ability to feed a crowd. Both dishes include beans mixed with meats and a savory sauce, making them deliciously satisfying.

However, while they share similar features, one striking difference sets them apart: their blend of flavors and ingredients. 

In this post, we take a look at the difference between these dishes.

What Is Calico Beans? 

Calico beans is a popular dish often served at barbecues and gatherings. It gets its name from the mix of different beans used in the recipe.

Typically, the dish includes a combination of kidney beans, butter beans, and pork and beans, along with ground beef and sometimes bacon. The beans are cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made from ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. This gives calico beans a comforting, slightly sweet flavor that is balanced with a bit of acidity.

What Is Cowboy Beans? 

Cowboy beans is a dish that originated in the American West. Unlike calico beans, cowboy beans usually stick to a single type of bean, such as pinto beans or baked beans.

The recipe often includes ground beef, bacon, or sausage, and is flavored with bold, smoky, and spicy ingredients like barbecue sauce, chili powder, and jalapeños. Cowboy beans are known for their robust, earthy taste, which can vary depending on the region and the cook’s preferences. They are typically cooked over a fire or simmered slowly in a pot.

Difference Between Calico Beans and Cowboy Beans 

Variety of Beans

One of the biggest differences between calico beans and cowboy beans is the variety of beans used. Calico beans are unique because they combine several different types of beans, which gives the dish a visually appealing, colorful look and a variety of textures.

On the other hand, cowboy beans tend to stick to just one or two types of beans, often pinto or baked beans, keeping the dish more uniform in texture and appearance. 

Flavor

The flavor of calico beans leans towards sweet and tangy, with ingredients like brown sugar, ketchup, and vinegar creating a balance of flavors. This makes calico beans a bit milder.

On the other hand, cowboy beans have a bolder, spicier taste. The use of chili powder, barbecue sauce, and sometimes jalapeños gives them a smoky, slightly spicy kick, which pairs well with outdoor barbecues or campfire meals. 

Cooking

Another key difference lies in how the dishes are cooked. Calico beans are typically baked, which allows the flavors to deepen and come together slowly.

The long baking time ensures the beans and meat are tender and the sauce is thick. Cowboy beans, however, are often cooked on a stovetop or over a fire, making them quicker to prepare.