Cowboy beans, also known as chuckwagon beans or calico beans, are a hearty and flavorful dish traditionally made out of a variety of beans, meats, onions, bell peppers, and a blend of sweet and tangy ingredients like sugar, ketchup, mustard, and vinegar. Several types of beans are included for variety in texture and flavor. Overall, it's a real stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish.