Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe

“Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty, one-pot meal packed with ground beef, kielbasa sausage, potatoes, beans, corn, and veggies, all seasoned with bold spices for a rich, comforting flavor. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping, this easy cowboy stew is ideal for chilly nights or outdoor gatherings. With its delicious blend of savory ingredients, this classic cowboy stew recipe is a family favorite that’s ready in just an hour. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.”

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 packages kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch pieces
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) peeled and diced tomatoes, drained
• 4 medium baking potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, with liquid
• 1 can (15.2 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chiles, with liquid
• 1 package (10 oz) frozen mixed vegetables
• 4 cups water
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until softened. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the sliced kielbasa sausage, then add the drained diced tomatoes, pinto beans (with liquid), corn, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles (with liquid), and frozen mixed vegetables.
4. Season with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Add 4 cups of water and bring the stew to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips

• Use a Large Pot: This stew makes a large batch, so use a large Dutch oven or stock pot to ensure there’s enough space for all ingredients.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: For a spicier stew, add a bit more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
• Let It Simmer Longer: If you have extra time, simmering for more than an hour allows flavors to deepen and meld even more.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, or try smoked sausage instead of kielbasa.
• Beans and Vegetables: Swap out pinto beans for kidney beans or black beans, and use fresh vegetables if preferred.
• Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or extra green chiles for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the stew cool, then transfer it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat on the stove when ready to enjoy.

How do I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty Texas Cowboy Stew with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or warm tortillas. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Texas Cowboy Stew is a true comfort food classic! It’s packed with savory flavors from ground beef, sausage, beans, and a medley of vegetables, all seasoned to perfection. Ideal for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping, this easy one-pot meal is perfect for chilly nights, backyard gatherings, or any time you’re craving a filling and flavorful stew.