Description

Cowboy Stew is the kind of dish that feels like it came straight off the campfire—bold, rustic, filling, and deeply comforting. This one-pot wonder combines ground beef, smoky sausage, tender potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and warming spices into a thick, satisfying stew that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

It’s perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or anytime you need to feed a hungry crowd on a budget. Packed with protein, loaded with veggies, and easy to customize, Cowboy Stew is a no-fuss, full-flavor meal that sticks to your ribs and warms the soul.

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Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: hot sauce or cayenne for extra heat

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Instructions

1. Brown the meats:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics:
   In the same pot, add onion (and a drizzle of olive oil if needed). Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the stew:
   Return beef and sausage to the pot. Add potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Rotel, beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
4. Season and simmer:
   Add chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and stew has thickened.
5. Taste and adjust:
   Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed. Add hot sauce or cayenne for extra kick, if desired.
6. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crusty bread.

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Nutrition (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbs: 32 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sodium: 750 mg (varies by ingredients)

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Tips & Tricks

• Make it in a slow cooker: Brown meat and sausage first, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
• Spice it up: Use hot sausage or add jalapeños for extra heat.
• Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.
• Bulk it up: Stir in cooked pasta or rice to stretch it further.
• Make ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day and freezes well for up to 3 months.

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From Me to Your Readers

Cowboy Stew is one of those meals that just feels like home. It’s humble, hearty, and made with pantry staples, yet it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pot dinner is guaranteed to satisfy.

This is a great recipe to include in your “Budget-Friendly Dinners,” “Hearty Stews,” or “One-Pot Meals” collections. You could even create a Cold Weather Comfort Meals roundup featuring this stew front and center!