Cowboy Stew
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Cowboy Stew is the epitome of hearty, comforting meals that are perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. Combining smoky bacon, savory sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish promises to warm your soul and satisfy a crowd. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this stew is sure to become a favorite. With its rich flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s no wonder that many find themselves returning to this recipe time and again.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Cowboy Stew stands out not just for its delicious taste, but for its simplicity and heartiness. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers comfort with every bite. The combination of meats, beans, and vegetables makes it incredibly filling, while the spices and baked beans elevate the flavor profile to new heights. Perfect for weeknight dinners, tailgating parties, or chilly fall evenings, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for kids and adults alike.
“I made this for a family gathering and it was an instant hit! Everyone went back for seconds, and I loved how simple it was to prepare. The flavors meld together beautifully.” — A satisfied stew lover
The cooking process explained
Creating Cowboy Stew is a straightforward process that will have you cozying up with a warm bowl in no time. You’ll start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy, which creates a delicious foundation for your stew. Next, you’ll brown the sausage and beef, followed by combining all the ingredients into one pot. In just under an hour, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve.
What you’ll need
Gathering the ingredients for Cowboy Stew is all part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this standout dish:
- 4 slices bacon, (chopped)
- 2 (12-ounce) packages kielbasa sausage, (cut into 1/2 inch slices)
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes (with liquid)
- 2 (16-ounce) cans baked beans (sweeter) or ranch beans (more savory) (with liquid)
- 1 (7-ounce) can chopped green chilies (with liquid)
- 1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn (with liquid)
- 2 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
Feel free to explore substitutions to find your preferred flavors—like using turkey sausage for a leaner option or swapping sweet corn with bell peppers for a fresh twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it’s brown and crispy. Remove it using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
- In the pot drippings, add the sliced kielbasa sausage. Brown it on both sides, ensuring not to burn the brown bits at the bottom (the fond). Once done, set the sausage aside with the bacon.
- Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the beef is no longer pink.
- Sprinkle the flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Stir and cook for about a minute to combine the flavors.
- Next, add the petite diced tomatoes, baked beans, chopped green chilies, sweet corn, diced potatoes, bacon, sausage, and the cup of water. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. If the stew becomes too thick, add a bit more water as necessary.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.
Best ways to enjoy it
Cowboy Stew is deliciously versatile! You can serve it in deep bowls topped with a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even some fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. For an added crunch, a side of cornbread or homemade biscuits pairs wonderfully with the stew. A light green salad also makes a refreshing side to balance the hearty dish.
Storage and reheating tips
When it comes to leftovers, Cowboy Stew is a champion! Store any uneaten stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to three months. Just make sure to avoid storing it in metal containers if you go the freezing route, as this can affect flavor.
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen) and gently warm on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of water if it seems too thick after thawing.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few nuggets of wisdom to enhance your Cowboy Stew experience:
- Bacon Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of bacon, consider using smoked turkey or pancetta to achieve a similar smoky flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
- Make it a Casserole: For a twist, consider layering the stew in a baking dish, topping it with mashed potatoes, and baking until golden brown for a Cowboy Shepherd’s Pie!
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your stew a spicy lift.
- Hearty Beans: Swap out baked beans for black beans or kidney beans for a different bean-centric flavor.
- Vegetarian Style: Use plant-based sausage and beef to create a hearty vegan version without sacrificing flavor. Just load up on extra vegetables!
Common questions
What is the prep time for this Cowboy Stew?
Prep time typically takes around 15 minutes, with a total cook time of about one hour.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option work well.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Cowboy Stew can be stored in the fridge for about four days or frozen for three months, making it a great make-ahead option.
Now you’re ready to dive into this hearty Cowboy Stew. Happy cooking!
Cowboy Stew
Ingredients
Method
- Cook chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until brown and crispy. Remove and set aside to drain excess fat.
- In the pot drippings, add sliced kielbasa sausage and brown on both sides.
- Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the beef is no longer pink.
- Sprinkle flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Stir and cook for about a minute.
- Add petite diced tomatoes, baked beans, chopped green chilies, sweet corn, russet potatoes, bacon, sausage, and water. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cover. Let simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
- If the stew becomes too thick, add a bit more water as necessary.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
