There's nothing like the comforting aroma of a hearty cowboy stew simmering away in your crockpot. This dish is a satisfying blend of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
I first came across this recipe while searching for ways to combine simple pantry staples into a single, filling meal. Since then, it’s become a go-to on busy days when I want something easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into what makes this cowboy stew a must-try!
Why You'll Love This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew
Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s equal parts comforting and convenient. This Crockpot Cowboy Stew is a game-changer for those who love hearty, no-fuss meals.
First, the crockpot does all the heavy lifting. Simply toss in the ingredients, set it, and let the slow cooker work its magic. By dinnertime, you’ll have a rich, flavorful stew ready to enjoy with minimal effort.
This stew is as budget-friendly as it is delicious. Featuring affordable staples like ground beef, potatoes, and canned beans, it’s a filling meal that won’t break the bank.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to swap out certain vegetables or use a different protein, this recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.
Best of all, it’s a family favorite. Even picky eaters will love the hearty combination of tender meat, savory broth, and just the right amount of spice.
Ingredients Notes
The secret to this cowboy stew is its balance of simple ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s packed with flavor.
Ground beef serves as the base of this stew, providing a rich and savory flavor. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of fat and flavor, but you can opt for a leaner option if preferred.
Potatoes are the backbone of this dish, adding substance and texture. Russet potatoes work best due to their hearty, starchy nature, but Yukon golds are a great alternative if you prefer a creamier texture.
Canned beans add both protein and a velvety texture to the stew. I like to use a mix of pinto and kidney beans, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a smoky depth of flavor to the broth. Regular diced tomatoes will work in a pinch, but the fire-roasted variety takes this stew to the next level.
Finally, seasonings like chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder add just the right amount of kick. Adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste buds.
You’ll also need a large crockpot to accommodate all the hearty ingredients, especially if you’re doubling the recipe for a crowd!
How To Make This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew
Making this stew couldn’t be easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a perfect result every time.
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks, and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once browned, drain the excess fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.
Dice your potatoes into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Layer the potatoes over the cooked ground beef in the crockpot.
Next, add your canned beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and any other vegetables you’d like to include, such as diced onions or frozen corn. These additional veggies will boost the nutritional value of the stew.
Season the mixture generously with chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne if you like a bit of heat. Stir everything gently to combine.
Pour in enough beef broth to cover the ingredients, usually about 4 cups. This will ensure the stew has a rich, savory base as it cooks.
Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The long, slow cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Once the stew is ready, give it a good stir and check the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or spices if needed, and serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or cornbread.
Storage Options
This cowboy stew is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Store the cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave a bit of room at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this stew lies in its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or even diced chicken for a different protein profile.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-packed twist.
- Add diced green chilies or jalapeños for an extra kick of spice.
- Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for added richness.
- If you’re vegetarian, substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Experiment with these variations to create a version of cowboy stew that’s perfectly suited to your family’s tastes.
This hearty crockpot cowboy stew is a lifesaver on busy days and a comfort food classic everyone will love. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your home!
PrintHearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew Recipe
This hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew recipe combines sausage, potatoes, and beans into a rich and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow-cooked stew is a satisfying and comforting dish the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked ground beef, smoked sausage, potatoes, onion, mixed vegetables, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the crockpot.
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Add some spice with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
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