If you’re craving a bold, rib-sticking meal that tastes like it was cooked over an open fire on the prairie, this Cowboy Stew Recipe will quickly earn a spot in your dinner rotation. Imagine fork-tender potatoes mingling with hearty ground beef and smoked sausage, all swimming together in a smoky-tangy tomato base studded with sweet corn and creamy pinto beans. This is the kind of deeply comforting dish that brings the whole family to the table—perfect for chilly nights, big appetites, and anyone in need of a little old-fashioned food joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing fancy here—just wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients that deliver layers of flavor and heartiness. Every component plays a role, whether it’s adding color, spice, or those soft, satisfying bites that make each spoonful of Cowboy Stew Recipe truly special.

Ground beef: The classic choice for flavor and that satisfying, meaty bite at the heart of the stew.
Smoked sausage: Adds an irresistible smoky richness and chewy contrast to the beef.
Onion: Diced for subtle sweetness that melts right into the base of the stew.
Garlic: Minced for bold aroma and depth—don’t skip it!
Potatoes: Peeled and diced; these soak up the broth and provide creamy texture.
Beef broth: Forms a rich foundation—use low sodium if you’re watching your salt.
Diced tomatoes: Bring tangy sweetness and body to the stew.
Corn: Drained kernels add little pops of sweetness and color.
Pinto beans: Rinsed and drained, for even more protein and a creamy, earthy bite.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies: For that sultry warmth and a touch of heat.
Chili powder: Just the right amount of smoky, spicy kick.
Smoked paprika: Deepens the smoky vibe and adds gorgeous color.
Cumin: For subtle, savory, southwestern flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Season to taste—layer it in as you go.
Chopped fresh parsley: To garnish and brighten up that big, beautiful pot.

How to Make Cowboy Stew Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meats

Start by grabbing your largest Dutch oven or sturdy soup pot and set it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, using a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it sizzles. This is your flavor foundation! Once browned, drain off any excess grease to keep things lighter.

Step 2: Add the Smoked Sausage

Toss in your sliced smoked sausage and let it mingle with the beef for about 2 minutes. You want a bit of browning on those sausage rounds—this brings out their beautifully smoky aroma and makes the whole stew taste a little like campfire magic.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Spoon in the diced onion and minced garlic, and stir everything together. Let them cook for about 3 minutes, just until the onion is translucent and you can smell that heady, savory scent. This step unlocks sweet and earthy notes that will flavor your entire Cowboy Stew Recipe.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

Sprinkle in the peeled, diced potatoes, then pour in your beef broth. The potatoes will soak up all those flavors as the stew simmers, making every bite perfectly cozy and comforting.

Step 5: Stir in Vegetables, Beans, and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to get serious: add the can of diced tomatoes, corn, pinto beans, and that zippy can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Give everything a thorough stir so the vegetables and beans are evenly distributed, and the juices start to meld into the savory base.

Step 6: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. These seasonings give the dish its smoky, bold, and warming finish. Don’t forget to taste and adjust—everyone’s spice tolerance is a little different, so make it your own.

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your stew to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat to a simmer and cover your pot. Let it bubble away for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are soft, the flavors are cozy and melded, and your kitchen smells like pure comfort food bliss.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Give the stew a final stir and check the seasoning one more time. Right before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a pop of freshness and color. Ladle into bowls and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Cowboy Stew Recipe

Garnishes

A finishing touch makes all the difference! Sprinkle your Cowboy Stew Recipe with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a little herbal lift. Feeling adventurous? Try a dollop of sour cream, some shredded cheddar cheese, or sliced green onions for a Southwestern flair. These simple add-ons make each bowl feel a bit more special.

Side Dishes

This stew begs for bread—think toasted sourdough, cornbread muffins, or even buttery biscuits to soak up every drop of that savory broth. If you’d rather keep things lighter, serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Either way, the sides you choose will make your Cowboy Stew Recipe into a real feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try ladling your stew into crusty bread bowls, or top each serving with crunchy tortilla strips for texture. Hosting a casual get-together? Set up a DIY stew bar: let guests add their favorite toppings and sides. However you share it, this hearty dish is guaranteed to get rave reviews.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cowboy Stew Recipe only gets better as it sits, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead or stash extras in the fridge. Cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors meld together, making tomorrow’s bowl even tastier.

Freezing

If you want to build a freezer stash, this recipe is a lifesaver. Let the stew cool, spoon it into freezer-safe containers (leave a bit of space for expansion), and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to use for those “I need comfort food now” kind of days.

Reheating

Warm up your leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring now and then to prevent scorching. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works just fine—just zap in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring after each burst, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s looking too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course, Soup

Absolutely! Kielbasa, andouille, or even chorizo will each lend their own delicious twist to your Cowboy Stew Recipe. Just make sure you choose something smoky or spicy for the most flavor.

What if I don’t have pinto beans?

Swap in kidney beans, black beans, or even chickpeas—they all work nicely, and each brings a slightly different texture and taste. Use what you have on hand and make it your own.

How do I make the stew thicker?

For a stick-to-your-ribs version, simply mash a few of the cooked potatoes right in the pot and give the stew a good stir. It adds creaminess and thickens things up without any extra ingredients.

Is this Cowboy Stew Recipe spicy?

The diced tomatoes with green chilies provide a gentle kick, but it isn’t overly spicy. You can dial up the heat with more chili powder or by using a spicier type of sausage if your crowd loves things fiery!

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely. Carrots, bell peppers, green beans, or even zucchini can be added for extra nutrition, color, and texture. Add firm veggies with the potatoes so they cook through, and tender ones in the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in need of a warming, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, give this Cowboy Stew Recipe a try. It’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to fill your kitchen with good vibes. Invite your favorite people to the table, pass the bread, and get ready for second helpings!

Cowboy Stew Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 10 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cowboy Stew recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, smoked sausage, vegetables, and a blend of spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds

Vegetables:

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

Broth and Canned Goods:

3 cups beef broth
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Ground Beef: In a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Add Sausage and Vegetables: Add smoked sausage and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Combine Ingredients: Add potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, corn, pinto beans, tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.