This bold and rustic cowboy stew combines ground beef, sausage, beans, potatoes, corn, and tomatoes in a smoky, savory broth — a one-pot, stick-to-your-ribs comfort dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or big family gatherings. Packed with hearty ingredients and robust flavors, this stew is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy stew is a classic comfort food that brings together rich, satisfying flavors in a single pot. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this stew checks all the boxes. It’s protein-rich, full of vegetables, and effortlessly adaptable to your preferences. Plus, it’s ideal for cold evenings or rustic outdoor meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ground beef
- smoked sausage, sliced
- olive oil
- small onion, chopped
- garlic, minced
- baby potatoes, halved
- canned kidney beans, drained
- canned pinto beans, drained
- canned sweet corn, drained
- canned diced tomatoes with juice
- beef broth
- smoked paprika
- cumin
- salt and pepper
- fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Add sausage slices and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add potatoes, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring stew to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- Add Grains: Stir in cooked rice or barley toward the end of cooking for added texture.
- Different Beans: Use black beans or white beans for a twist.
- Cheesy Finish: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cowboy stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered container for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What kind of sausage works best in cowboy stew?
Smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or andouille, adds a deep flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Can I make cowboy stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh?
You can, but they may break down more easily. Add canned potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
How do I thicken cowboy stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes or beans with a fork and stir them back into the pot.
Is cowboy stew spicy?
Not inherently. It’s savory and smoky, but you can adjust the heat by adding spices or hot sauce.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, cowboy stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it properly and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with cowboy stew?
It pairs well with cornbread, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I substitute the beef broth?
Yes, you can use chicken or vegetable broth, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, carrots, or green beans can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.
What type of pot is best for this stew?
A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot works best for even cooking and flavor development.
Conclusion
Hearty cowboy stew is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. With simple ingredients and bold taste, it’s a go-to recipe for cozy dinners and meal prep alike. Its versatility and robust flavor make it a must-try for any home cook looking to serve something satisfying and wholesome.
Print
Hearty Cowboy Stew
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This bold and rustic cowboy stew combines ground beef, sausage, beans, potatoes, corn, and tomatoes in a smoky, savory broth — a one-pot, stick-to-your-ribs comfort dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or big family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
- Add sausage slices and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add potatoes, beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Season with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring stew to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- This stew can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Try swapping out the beans or using different types of sausage for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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