Cowboy Stew: Hearty One‑Pot Dinner You’ll Love

Why You’ll Love Cowboy Stew: Hearty One‑Pot Dinner You’ll Love Recipe

This cowboy stew delivers big flavor and plenty of heartiness in every bite. It combines the best elements of classic chili and traditional beef stew, balancing smoky meats with savory tomatoes, sweet corn, and tender potatoes. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a Dutch oven, or in a slow cooker, it’s an easy, crowd‑pleasing dinner that gets better with time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
kielbasa sausage, sliced
green bell pepper or poblano peppers, chopped
yellow onion, chopped
kosher salt
ground beef (85% lean)
chili powder
garlic, minced
diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as RO‑TEL)
unsalted beef broth
baked beans
russet potato, peeled and cubed
frozen corn
shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
sliced scallions (optional)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium‑high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.

2. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the chopped peppers and onions to the pot with a pinch of salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.

3. Push the vegetables to the side, add the ground beef to the empty space, and brown, breaking it up with a spoon.

4. Sprinkle in the chili powder and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.

5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, baked beans, and return the browned sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil.

6. Once boiling, add the cubed potatoes, reduce heat to medium‑low, and simmer until potatoes are tender and stew thickens, about 30 minutes.

7. Stir in the frozen corn and cook until heated through. Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced scallions if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 to 8
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Cook time: ~55 minutes
Total time: ~75 minutes

Variations

• Swap meats: Use ground turkey or add bacon for extra smokiness.
• Bean choice: Substitute kidney or pinto beans for baked beans to control sweetness.
• Spice level: Add jalapeños or cayenne for heat.
• Vegetables: Include carrots or celery for more texture and nutrition.
• Cooking method: Try in a slow cooker on low for all‑day flavor infusion.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftover cowboy stew in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot throughout. For longer storage, freeze stew in freezer‑safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What makes cowboy stew different from chili?

Cowboy stew is heartier than chili because it includes larger chunks of vegetables like potatoes and often a mix of meats in a tomato‑based broth.

Can I make cowboy stew in a slow cooker?

Yes — you can brown the meats first then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

What type of beans should I use?

Baked beans are traditional in some recipes, but kidney, pinto, or ranch‑style beans all work well.

Can I freeze cowboy stew?

Yes — it freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

How do I prevent the stew from getting too thick?

Add extra broth or water when reheating or during cooking to reach your desired consistency.

What toppings go well with cowboy stew?

Shredded cheese, scallions, sour cream, or tortilla chips add flavor and texture.

Is cowboy stew spicy?

It’s mildly spiced with chili powder and can be made hotter with added peppers or cayenne.

What sides pair well with cowboy stew?

Cornbread, biscuits, or a green salad complement its rich flavors.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes — fresh diced tomatoes can be used, though you may need more broth for adequate liquid.

How do I thicken cowboy stew if it’s too thin?

Simmer uncovered longer, or mash some of the potatoes into the broth to naturally thicken it.

Conclusion

Cowboy stew is a flavorful, comforting meal that brings together the best of chili and traditional stew in one pot. Easy to adapt, full of rich, smoky flavors, and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal‑prepping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.