Cowboy Stew Recipe

This Cowboy Stew recipe combines hearty ground beef, smoked sausage, crispy bacon, and a variety of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the perfect comfort food for cold nights or a family-friendly dinner. With a mix of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, this stew offers a satisfying depth of flavor. The combination of beans, corn, and potatoes makes it a filling, one-pot meal. Ideal for meal prep, this dish can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and even freezes well. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb Kielbasa sausage, sliced (or any smoked sausage)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 (10-ounce) cans Rotel tomatoes
• 2 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (see notes)
• 3/4 cup frozen peas
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a Dutch oven or large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. When the beef is about halfway browned, add the sliced sausage, onions, and carrots. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft.
3. Add the Spices: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
4. Simmer the Stew: Add the Rotel tomatoes, pinto beans, corn, beef broth, and diced potatoes. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a low boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Finish the Stew: Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, sausage, beans, and potatoes, this stew is a satisfying meal that’s sure to keep you full.
• One-Pot Meal: All ingredients cook together in a single pot, making cleanup easy.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and bacon creates a rich, flavorful stew that’s both comforting and savory.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this stew is versatile and always a hit.

Tips

• Bacon Flavor: Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor, and be sure to reserve the rendered fat for cooking the meat.
• Potato Texture: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape while becoming tender, but you can substitute with russet potatoes if preferred.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot to create a creamier texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon, ground beef, and sausage. Substitute with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms and vegetable broth.
• Different Beans: Feel free to use black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas instead of pinto beans for a different texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier stew, add diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce to taste.

FAQs

Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I use instead of kielbasa?
You can substitute kielbasa with any smoked sausage or even chorizo for a spicier kick.

Serving and Suggestions

• Perfect Pairings: Serve with warm cornbread or a crusty baguette for dipping.
• Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for extra richness.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.