If there’s one dish that feels like a warm, hearty hug after a long day, it’s this Cowboy Stew Recipe. Packed with bold flavors from smoky bacon, savory kielbasa, tender ground beef, and a colorful mix of vegetables and beans, this stew is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or craving a comforting meal that sticks to your ribs, this Cowboy Stew Recipe delivers a satisfying blend of textures and spices that’s sure to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients might seem simple, but each one brings a vital layer of flavor, texture, or color to the stew, making it an utterly delicious crowd-pleaser.
- Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Adds a smoky richness that infuses the stew with deep, savory notes.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 ounces, sliced): Provides a hearty, slightly spicy meat component with great texture.
- Ground beef (1 pound, 90% lean): Brings a meaty base and comforting substance to the stew.
- Onion (1, chopped): Offers sweetness and aroma that perfectly complement the savory meats.
- Green bell pepper (1, chopped): Adds fresh, crisp flavor and a pop of vibrant color.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (3 medium, ½-inch cubes): Provide creamy texture once cooked and help to thicken the stew naturally.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, pungent undertones.
- Kidney beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed): Offer a hearty bite and earthy flavor, plus protein and fiber.
- Black beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed): Add more depth and texture while boosting nutrition.
- Petite diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces): Bring acidity and juiciness that balance the richness of the meat.
- Whole-kernel corn (15 ounces, drained): Introduces sweet bursts that brighten the savory stew.
- Low-sodium beef broth (4 cups): Provides a flavorful liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Used to thicken the stew perfectly, creating that satisfying hearty mouthfeel.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and classic southwestern warmth.
- Kosher salt (1½ teaspoons): Enhances and balances every flavor in the pot.
- Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Lends mild heat and complexity.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Brightens the stew visually and adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Cowboy Stew Recipe
Step 1: Cook the bacon
Begin by heating a large Dutch oven over medium heat and frying the chopped bacon until crisp. This step is key because the rendered bacon grease will carry intense, smoky flavors into the rest of the stew. Once the bacon is done, scoop it out and set aside on a paper towel to drain, leaving just a tablespoon of bacon grease behind to jumpstart the next steps.
Step 2: Cook the sausage
Next, add the sliced kielbasa sausage to the pot. Browning the sausage in the leftover bacon grease builds a rich, meaty foundation for the stew. Cook until the slices get a beautiful golden crust on both sides, then remove and reserve them alongside your bacon pieces for later.
Step 3: Cook the beef and vegetables
In the same pot, toss in the ground beef, chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Breaking up the ground beef as it cooks ensures it browns evenly and melds wonderfully with the vegetables. Sauté until the beef is fully browned and the onion turns translucent, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Step 4: Add dry ingredients
Sprinkle the flour, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper over the meat and vegetables. Stir it all together and cook for about one minute until the flour absorbs the fat and spices. This step helps thicken the stew later and coats everything in a layer of warm spice.
Step 5: Add remaining ingredients
Now it’s time to bring the stew together. Add the kidney beans, black beans, petite diced tomatoes, corn, potatoes, beef broth, and the cooked bacon and sausage back into the pot. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a lovely splash of green and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the robust flavors of your Cowboy Stew Recipe. Serve it piping hot for maximum comfort and satisfaction.
How to Serve Cowboy Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you can also sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top to add creaminess and zing. A few sliced green onions or a dash of smoked paprika can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
To round out this hearty stew, consider serving it with crusty bread or warm cornbread for dipping. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can lighten the meal, while some roasted vegetables add even more layers of flavor and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun touch, serve the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls or deep ceramic mugs for individual portions. If you’re entertaining, a rustic serving platter filled with the stew accompanied by tiny bowls of extra toppings invites everyone to customize their bowls and enjoy the warmth of sharing a cowboy-style meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the Cowboy Stew Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This stew freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickened too much during storage to regain the perfect stew consistency.
FAQs
Can I substitute the kielbasa sausage with another type of sausage?
Absolutely! Italian sausage, smoked Andouille, or even chorizo would bring unique flavors and still maintain the hearty spirit of the Cowboy Stew Recipe. Just adjust the cooking times based on the sausage type.
Is this stew spicy?
This recipe has a gentle warmth from the chili powder but isn’t overly spicy. You can always add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce if you prefer something with more kick.
Can I make Cowboy Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by browning meats and vegetables first, then combining all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
What can I use instead of potatoes?
If you want to switch things up, sweet potatoes or butternut squash cubes make excellent substitutes, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky flavors wonderfully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry to thicken the stew, making it gluten-free friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Cowboy Stew Recipe is everything you want in a stick-to-your-ribs meal: robust, flavorful, and comforting. It’s a wonderful way to bring people together around the table, warming hearts and bellies alike. Trust me, once you try it, this stew will have a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So go ahead, dive in, and savor every hearty spoonful!
Print
Cowboy Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hearty and flavorful Cowboy Stew packed with smoky bacon, savory kielbasa, lean ground beef, and a medley of vegetables and beans simmered to perfection in a rich beef broth. This comforting stew is perfect for a satisfying family meal and comes together using simple stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Meats
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced (1 package)
- 1 pound 90% lean ground beef
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 ounces canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
- 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
- 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes (1 can)
- 15 ounces canned whole-kernel corn, drained (1 can)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and fry it until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave one tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot, draining off any excess grease.
- Cook the sausage: Into the same pot, add the sliced kielbasa sausage. Cook until browned on each side, then remove and set aside with the cooked bacon.
- Cook the beef and vegetables: Add the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground beef as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add dry ingredients: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour, chili powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir constantly for one minute, allowing the flour to be fully absorbed and ensuring there are no dry patches.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the drained kidney beans, black beans, petite diced tomatoes, corn, cubed potatoes, beef broth, cooked bacon, and kielbasa sausage. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Garnish and serve: Once the stew is ready, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Make sure to rinse and drain canned beans to reduce sodium content and improve flavor.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape during simmering.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt, depending on the sodium content of your broth and canned ingredients.
- For a thicker stew, you can simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
