Cowboy Stew Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, soul-warming bowl of comfort, this Cowboy Stew Recipe is going to become your new favorite! Loaded with smoky bacon, savory ground beef, spicy sausage, colorful veggies, and perfectly seasoned with classic southwest spices, this stew is as satisfying as it is easy to make. It has the spirit of a campfire meal with all the coziness of home, making it perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. In just one pot, you’ll create a rustic medley of bold flavors and textures that tastes even better the next day. Once you try this Cowboy Stew Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cowboy Stew Recipe is in its approachable, everyday ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, from color and heartiness to layers of smoky, spicy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Bacon: Gives the stew a smoky, savory base and adds irresistible texture.
• Ground beef: Classic and protein-packed, it delivers hearty flavor and substance.
• Kielbasa sausage: Adds a punch of spice and smokiness; feel free to use any smoked sausage.
• Yellow onion: Offers subtle sweetness and aromatic depth as it cooks down.
• Carrots: Bring a pop of color and natural sweetness that balances out the spices.
• Garlic: Aromatic and bold, it creates a savory backbone for the stew.
• Chili powder: Adds kick and warmth for that signature cowboy flavor.
• Ground cumin: Provides earthiness and just a hint of smokiness.
• Smoked paprika: Complements the bacon and sausage with even more smoky richness.
• Rotel tomatoes: Diced tomatoes with green chiles lend zesty acidity and a gentle heat.
• Pinto beans: Creamy and hearty, these make every bite filling and satisfying.
• Corn: Sweetness and subtle crunch shine through when you bite into the stew.
• Low-sodium beef broth: The liquid gold that ties everything together and makes each spoonful comforting.
• Yukon Gold potatoes: Creamy potatoes stand up well to simmering, soaking up all the stew’s delicious flavors.
• Frozen peas: Bring a final burst of color and subtle sweetness just before serving.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Elevate all the flavors; adjust to your taste.
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): A sprinkle on top for a fresh, herbal finish.

How to Make Cowboy Stew Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by placing your chopped bacon into a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Let it sizzle and render until beautifully crispy, stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking. Once the bacon is done, scoop it out with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leaving a bit of the rendered bacon fat in the pot adds depth to every layer of this Cowboy Stew Recipe.

Step 2: Brown the Meat and Soften the Veggies

Add the ground beef straight into the same pot, breaking it apart with your spatula as it cooks. When the beef is just about halfway browned, stir in the sliced sausage, onions, and carrots. Let everything mingle, cooking until the meat is fully browned and the onions have softened. This step builds such a rich, savory base that sets this stew apart from any ordinary soup.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Turn the heat down a notch and add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Give it all a good stir for about a minute, just until the spices are fragrant. Toasting the spices directly in the pot brings out their boldest, brightest flavors, making this Cowboy Stew Recipe truly memorable.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

Now for the best part: add the Rotel tomatoes (don’t drain!), pinto beans, corn, beef broth, and diced potatoes. Stir everything together, then turn the heat up and bring your soon-to-be stew to a low boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat so it simmers gently. Let it cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and everything has melded into a glorious, thickened stew.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Nearly there! Stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for just 2 to 3 minutes until they’re vibrantly green and tender. Season the stew with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a final pop of color and freshness before ladling up your Cowboy Stew Recipe.

How to Serve Cowboy Stew Recipe

Garnishes

The right garnish can turn a simple bowl of stew into something extra special. For this Cowboy Stew Recipe, try a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of green. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds lovely creaminess. If you like a bit of heat, finely sliced jalapeños are a zesty touch.

Side Dishes

While Cowboy Stew Recipe is filling on its own, it shines even brighter next to a warm slice of cornbread, a buttered biscuit, or a crusty baguette for dunking. For a lighter pairing, serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. These sides help round out the meal without overshadowing the bold flavors of the stew.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation game up a notch by serving Cowboy Stew Recipe in big, rustic bread bowls or miniature cast iron skillets for a fun touch. You can also ladle it over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for extra heartiness. For a casual gathering, set up a stew bar with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped chives, and jalapeños so everyone can customize their bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cowboy Stew Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge. Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavors just keep getting deeper and more delicious over time.

Freezing

This recipe freezes like a dream! Once cooled, ladle the stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and lay them flat to freeze. Label with the date and enjoy within 2 to 3 months for the best texture and flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the Cowboy Stew Recipe on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in 1-minute bursts and stirring in between. If the stew looks too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make Cowboy Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the bacon, beef, and sausage first on the stovetop, then transfer everything (except the peas and garnish) into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, adding the peas in the last 30 minutes. Finish with your favorite garnishes before serving.

Is there a way to make this stew vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the bacon, ground beef, and sausage for a hearty plant-based alternative, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and toss in extra beans or mushrooms for that meaty bite. You’ll still get tons of flavor thanks to the bold spices and veggies.

What other beans can I use?

Pinto beans are classic, but black beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans work beautifully. Use your favorite combination or just what you have in the pantry for your own twist on Cowboy Stew Recipe.

Can I prep Cowboy Stew Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! Chop all your vegetables and even cook the bacon in advance. Store everything in airtight containers in the fridge so when it’s time to cook, you just have to assemble and simmer. The stew itself also tastes incredible made a day ahead!

What’s the best way to make this stew a little spicier?

Spice lovers can add extra chili powder, toss in a chopped jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce, or use spicy sausage to dial up the heat. Adjust to your taste and serve with cooling sour cream if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Cowboy Stew Recipe is the epitome of comfort food, everyday ingredients coming together for a meal that’s guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. I hope you’ll whip up a big batch soon and make it your own, because after one bite, it might just become your go-to stew too!

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