Cowboy Stew: A Hearty One-Pot Meal

This Cowboy Stew recipe is a delicious fusion of beef stew and classic chili, creating a rustic, stick-to-your-ribs meal perfect for any occasion. Loaded with three kinds of meat and plenty of hearty vegetables, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food. It’s packed with flavor from three different meats, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. The one-pot preparation makes for easy cleanup, and its hearty nature means everyone will be asking for seconds. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook bacon until brown and crispy in a large pot. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain.
2. Add the kielbasa sausage to the pot drippings and brown on both sides, adjusting heat as needed so the fond (brown bits on the bottom of the pot) does not burn. Remove to the plate with bacon; set aside.
3. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Brown until the beef is no longer pink.
4. Sprinkle the flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, baked beans, green chilies, sweet corn, cubed potatoes, cooked bacon, cooked sausage, and water to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Add additional water if the stew is too thick for your preference.

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Expert Tips / Pro Tips

For the best flavor, don’t skip any of the meats; the kielbasa adds a crucial smoky element. If you prefer a less sweet stew, opt for ranch-style beans instead of baked beans, and be sure to include their liquid. Petite diced tomatoes cook down faster, but crushed tomatoes are a good alternative if you can’t find them. Sweet corn, a specific variety, adds a natural sweetness; ensure you’re not just using corn with added sugar. To save time on busy weeknights, you can chop your onions, garlic, potatoes, and kielbasa ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe calls for baked beans, try using ranch-style beans (with their liquid) for a more savory and less sweet flavor profile, a popular choice in Texas. If you don’t have kielbasa, you could potentially substitute with another smoked sausage, though the unique flavor of kielbasa is highly recommended. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re not a fan of potatoes, you can omit them or substitute with sweet potatoes for a different flavor dimension.

Serving Suggestions

Cowboy Stew pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food sides. Serve it alongside warm cornbread (sweet or savory), fluffy Bisquick biscuits, tender beer bread, or buttery crescent rolls. For a lighter accompaniment, consider a fresh side salad like KFC coleslaw, strawberry spinach salad, or a simple carrot salad.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

Leftover Cowboy Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It tends to thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little water when reheating. This stew freezes well, but the potatoes can become mushy after thawing. To freeze, omit the potatoes and add canned or freshly cooked potatoes when you reheat the stew. Frozen stew will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding potatoes.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	1/8 of the recipe
Calories	745 kcal
Carbohydrates	52 g
Protein	38 g
Fat	45 g
Saturated Fat	15 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	1 g
Monounsaturated Fat	1 g
Cholesterol	125 mg
Sodium	2049 mg
Potassium	508 mg
Fiber	7 g
Sugar	15 g
Vitamin A	158 IU
Vitamin C	6 mg
Calcium	29 mg
Iron	2 mg

FAQ

What is Cowboy Stew?

Cowboy Stew is a hearty, one-pot dish that is thicker and more substantial than cowboy soup. It’s often described as a cross between a beef stew and a chili, featuring multiple types of meat and a rich blend of vegetables.

What kind of beans are best for Cowboy Stew?

You can use either sweet baked beans or savory ranch-style beans. Baked beans offer a slightly sweeter, nostalgic flavor, while ranch-style beans provide a richer, more savory profile. It’s recommended to use the liquid from the can with either type of bean.

Can I make Cowboy Stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meats and sauté the onions and garlic as directed. Then, combine all ingredients (except parsley) in the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in parsley before serving.

Why is my Cowboy Stew too thick?

The stew can thicken as it cooks and cools. If it becomes too thick for your liking, simply stir in a little extra water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make Cowboy Stew ahead of time?

Yes, Cowboy Stew is an excellent make-ahead meal. The flavors often meld and improve overnight. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.