Cowboy Stew: A Hearty and Flavorful Classic 🍲🤠🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a recipe for cowboy stew that delivers bold flavors and satisfying comfort in every bite, you’ve come to the right place. This homemade cowboy stew, also known as smoked sausage and ground beef stew or crockpot recipes cowboy stew, is a beloved dish that combines savory meats with hearty vegetables, making it the perfect beef meal for chilly evenings or family dinners. Whether you’re new to crockpot recipes cowboy stew or looking for an easy cowboy stew to make ahead, this guide will walk you through every step to create an unforgettable dish.
2. Ingredients Needed for the Best Cowboy Stew
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
3. How to Make Cowboy Stew: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and prep them accordingly. Slicing smoked sausage, dicing vegetables, and mincing garlic ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Brown the Meats
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Set aside. In the same skillet, sauté smoked sausage slices until lightly browned for extra flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute to enhance the aroma.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef and sausage to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, and beef broth. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper for authentic cowboy flavor.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, for a hands-free approach, use a crockpot, setting it on low for 6–8 hours. For more slow-cooker tips, visit our dinner category.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, give the stew a final taste adjustment with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. For a variation, check out our Philly Cheesesteak Stew as an alternative hearty meal.
4. Storage Tips for Homemade Cowboy Stew
Leftover homemade cowboy stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
5. Serving Suggestions for Cowboy Chowder
This easy cowboy stew pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or cornbread. For an extra hearty meal, serve it over rice or green enchiladas with a chicken cream cheese filling for a southwest twist. You can also garnish with chopped fresh parsley or shredded cheese for added flavor.
6. Variations and Related Recipes
If you enjoy this crockpot cowboy hamburger soup, you might also love our Korean ground beef bowl or try making a smothered chicken and rice for another comforting dish. These recipes add a unique flair to traditional favorites.
7. Tips for Making the Perfect Cowboy Stew
- Use smoked sausage for authentic flavor.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste—add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Incorporate additional vegetables like potatoes or zucchini for extra heartiness.
8. FAQs about Cowboy Stew
What is Cowboy Stew?
Cowboy stew is a hearty, savory stew typically made with smoked sausage, ground beef, vegetables, and spices, simmered together for a flavorful meal. It’s a popular crockpot recipe known for its simplicity and satisfying taste.
How do I make homemade cowboy stew?
To make homemade cowboy stew, brown meats, sauté vegetables, combine all ingredients in a pot or slow cooker, season generously, and let it simmer until flavors meld. For detailed steps, check our how to make guide.
Can I freeze cowboy stew?
Yes, cowboy stew freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers and enjoy within 3 months for the best flavor and texture.
What to serve with cowboy stew?
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice. For a southwestern touch, try serving with green enchiladas or a side of mashed potatoes.
9. Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of cooked cowboy stew to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. This homemade beef stew with corn recipe combines smoky sausage, ground beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s both simple and unforgettable. Whether you make it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, this easy cowboy stew is sure to become a family favorite. Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients and enjoy hearty, flavorful cowboy chowder today!
Print
Cowboy Stew
- Total Time: 40–55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free, Nut-Free
Description
Cowboy Stew is a hearty, flavorful classic dish made with smoked sausage, ground beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for chilly evenings, this homemade stew offers bold flavors and satisfying comfort in every bite. Whether cooked in a pot or slow cooker, this easy cowboy stew is a family favorite that combines smoky meats and hearty vegetables for a truly delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and prep them accordingly. Slicing smoked sausage, dicing vegetables, and mincing garlic ensures a smooth cooking process.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Set aside. In the same skillet, sauté smoked sausage slices until lightly browned for extra flavor.
- In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute to enhance the aroma.
- Return the browned ground beef and sausage to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, and beef broth. Season with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper for authentic cowboy flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, for a hands-free approach, use a crockpot set on low for 6–8 hours.
- Once cooked, give the stew a final taste adjustment with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use smoked sausage for authentic flavor.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste—add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Incorporate additional vegetables like potatoes or zucchini for extra heartiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop / Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American / Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
