Cowboy Stew

Cowboy Stew is a hearty, rustic dish packed with robust flavors and ideal for feeding a hungry crowd. This one-pot wonder combines the savory goodness of crispy bacon, juicy kielbasa sausage, and tender ground beef with hearty potatoes, beans, and corn. The stew is enriched with a flavorful tomato and green chili base, creating a slightly spicy kick balanced by the creamy texture of russet potatoes. It's a comforting, all-in-one meal perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

INGREDIENTS

• Bacon: 4 slices, chopped and browned
• Kielbasa sausage: 2 (12 oz) packages, sliced and browned
• Ground beef: 1.5 lbs (80/20), cooked and crumbled
• Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• All-purpose flour: 3 tbsp, for thickening
• Salt and pepper: 1.5 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Chili powder: 1 tsp, for subtle heat
• Petite diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can, with liquid
• Baked beans: 2 (16 oz) cans, with liquid
• Chopped green chilies: 1 (7 oz) can, with liquid
• Sweet corn: 1 (15 oz) can, with liquid
• Russet potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and cubed
• Water: 1 cup, for simmering
• Chopped parsley: 2 tbsp, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Brown bacon in a large pot over medium heat and set aside.

Step 2:

Add sliced kielbasa sausage to the pot and brown on both sides, then set aside.

Step 3:

In the same pot, add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until beef is browned.

Step 4:

Sprinkle with flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Stir and cook for 1 minute.

Step 5:

Add diced tomatoes, baked beans, green chilies, sweet corn, cubed potatoes, browned bacon and sausage, and water. Stir well.

Step 6:

Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice for a heartier meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Helpful Notes

• For extra heat, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the stew.
• Substitute different beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, for variety.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef’s Tip: Allow the stew to rest for 10 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.

Pairing Suggestions for Cowboy Stew

Cowboy Stew pairs well with buttery cornbread, pickled vegetables, or a refreshing salad to balance its hearty flavors.

Customizing Your Cowboy Stew

Add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or celery for additional nutrition and flavor. For a spicier version, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meats first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How can I thicken the stew?

Mix cornstarch with water and add to the stew or simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes, fresh or frozen corn works well and can be added directly to the pot.

What other sausages work well?

Andouille, smoked sausage, or chorizo are great alternatives to kielbasa.

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Conclusion

Cowboy Stew is a flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that brings together bacon, kielbasa, ground beef, beans, corn, and potatoes for a satisfying meal. This stew is the perfect combination of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, thanks to the addition of green chilies, chili powder, and diced tomatoes. Preparing this dish is straightforward, starting with browning the bacon and kielbasa for depth, followed by cooking the ground beef with aromatic onions and garlic. Everything is simmered together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a comforting and hearty stew, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.