Cowboy Stew Recipe
If you’re searching for a heartwarming meal that brings everyone around the table, the Cowboy Stew Recipe is it! This bold and flavorful one-pot wonder is loaded with ground beef, smoky sausage, tender beans, and robust spices that come together for the kind of stick-to-your-ribs comfort you only find in the best cowboy campfire tales. It simmers to savory perfection and fills your kitchen with incredible, mouth-watering aromas—truly a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With no complicated grocery lists required, the beauty of this Cowboy Stew Recipe is in its simplicity. Every ingredient serves a purpose, whether it’s adding rich flavor, a pop of color, or a hearty bite that makes the stew truly satisfying.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The foundation of savory flavor and the main source of robust, meaty goodness in the stew.
- Smoked Sausage (1/2 pound, sliced): Adds irresistible smoky notes and a satisfying chew in every bite.
- Onion (1/2, chopped): Builds the aromatic base, lending subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that ties all the savory elements together.
- Pinto Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained): Creamy texture and hearty fiber make the stew extra filling.
- Kidney Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained): Adds color, protein, and a classic, earthy bite.
- Corn (1 can, 15 oz, drained): Pops of sweet crunch for balance and visual appeal.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz): Brings juicy acidity and a bright, fresh note.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (1 can, 10 oz): Provides gentle heat and Southwestern flair.
- Beef Broth (1 cup): Deepens the stew’s savory base and gives it its perfect, hearty consistency.
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures bold, classic chili flavor in every spoonful.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Amplifies the smokiness and adds a deep reddish hue.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Pulls all the flavors together so nothing falls flat.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle kick and balances the richness.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Gets everything sizzling and brings out the flavor in your base ingredients.
How to Make Cowboy Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it cook gently for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for another 30 seconds — just enough for those irresistible aromas to bloom without burning.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef right into your pot with the onion and garlic. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks. Sauté until it’s deeply browned with no pink remaining, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease if things get a little too saucy!
Step 3: Add Smoked Sausage
Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and let it cook for an extra 2 to 3 minutes, just until those slices pick up a little color and release their smoky oils into the pot. This step is where the Cowboy Stew Recipe starts smelling like a campfire feast.
Step 4: Combine Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes
Now comes the fun part: stir in the pinto beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Each ingredient brings its own color and texture, making the stew bright and vibrant. Give everything a big stir so the flavors can get acquainted.
Step 5: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, then sprinkle over the chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together for a blend of spices and savoriness that makes this Cowboy Stew Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 6: Simmer the Stew
Bring the whole mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors harmonize and the broth to thicken just enough—taste and adjust the seasoning if desired before serving piping hot!
How to Serve Cowboy Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Cowboy Stew Recipe begs for a little flair! Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro. A sprinkle of chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce will delight anyone who craves an extra kick.
Side Dishes
This stew is a meal in itself, but if you want to round out your table, serve it alongside fluffy cornbread, sliced baguette, or baked potatoes. Even a simple green salad adds a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the stew’s hearty richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Ladle your Cowboy Stew Recipe into hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch, or serve small portions in individual mugs for a cozy appetizer. It’s also fantastic spooned over cooked rice or chunky mashed potatoes for a stick-to-your-ribs supper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the leftover Cowboy Stew Recipe to room temperature and then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, making it an easy option for meal prep or fast weeknight dinners.
Freezing
This hearty stew freezes exceptionally well. Once completely cooled, place it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags (removing as much air as possible). It can be stored for up to three months; just defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour the stew into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until piping hot. For a single serving, the microwave works like a charm—cover and heat in intervals, stirring between, until warm throughout.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply brown the meat and sauté the vegetables on the stove, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
What substitutions work well in Cowboy Stew Recipe?
You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef, use different types of beans, or add diced potatoes for a heartier bite. It’s a very forgiving and customizable recipe.
Is Cowboy Stew Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as all your canned goods and sausage are certified gluten-free, this stew fits easily into a gluten-free diet.
How can I make it spicier?
To amp up the spice, add a chopped jalapeño, stir in another can of green chiles, or offer hot sauce at the table so each diner can personalize their bowl.
Can I double Cowboy Stew Recipe for a crowd?
Definitely—just double all the ingredients and use your largest pot or Dutch oven. It’s a true hit at potlucks and backyard feasts!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding hungry family, prepping for a potluck, or just want to warm up a chilly evening, this Cowboy Stew Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. Give it a try, get creative with your toppings, and settle in for rave reviews and second helpings!
Print
Cowboy Stew Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cowboy Stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines ground beef, smoked sausage, beans, corn, and tomatoes for a deliciously satisfying dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week!
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Stew Base:
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large pot, sauté onion until soft, add garlic, then brown ground beef. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Cook Sausage: Add sliced sausage to the pot, cook for a few minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in beans, corn, tomatoes, and broth. Season with chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Enjoy hot!
Notes
- For a spicier stew, consider adding jalapeño or extra green chiles.
- Variations: Use ground turkey instead of beef or add potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
