Name: Cowboy Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 10 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 2 cups potatoes, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste

Hey y’all! If you’re craving a bold, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, this hearty Cowboy Stew is the answer. Packed with smoky sausage, ground beef, beans, and plenty of veggies, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for backyard gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. Grab your boots—let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Stew

One-pot wonder means minimal clean-up and maximum flavor.
Loaded with protein and veggies, it’s both filling and wholesome.
Customizable with your favorite ingredients for endless variety.
Ready in under an hour, so dinner is always within reach.
Feeds a crowd—perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

Cowboy Stew Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef
12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn
1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
3 cups beef broth
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Cowboy Stew: Directions

Step 1: Brown the Meats

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. Add sliced sausage and cook for 2-3 more minutes until browned at the edges. Remove meat to a plate; set aside.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics & Veggies

Add remaining olive oil to the pot. Sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Stir in potatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Cowboy Stew

Return cooked meats to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, Rotel, pinto beans, kidney beans, corn, and beef broth. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Taste and Serve!

Taste the Cowboy Stew, adjust seasonings if needed, and serve hot. Ladle into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, if you like!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings

Notes: Expert Tips for the Perfect Cowboy Stew

For extra smoky flavor, try using andouille or chorizo sausage. See this guide for more sausage options.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes into the broth as it finishes cooking.
Make it in a slow cooker by browning the meats and then transferring everything to a slow cooker on LOW for 6-8 hours.

Variations: Cowboy Stew with a Twist

Spicy Cowboy Stew: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños and an extra teaspoon of chili powder.
Healthy Cowboy Stew: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef and choose low-sodium beans and broth.
Vegetarian Cowboy Stew: Skip the meat and double up on beans and veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.

Required Equipment for Cowboy Stew

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board

Storing Cowboy Stew & Shelf Life

Let leftover Cowboy Stew cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, pour cooled stew into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Serving Suggestions & Best Pairings for Cowboy Stew

Enjoy with classic cornbread or crusty sourdough bread.
Pair with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw.
Top with shredded cheddar, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Pro Tips for Irresistible Cowboy Stew

Brown the meats well for the richest, deepest flavor—don’t rush this step. Learn more about browning meat at Bon Appétit.
Let the stew rest off the heat for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust your seasonings once the stew simmers—sometimes a dash more salt or chili powder is magic.

Cowboy Stew FAQ

Can I make Cowboy Stew ahead of time?: Absolutely! Cowboy Stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What are the best beans for Cowboy Stew?: Pinto and kidney beans are classic, but you can use black beans, cannellini, or any variety you love.
Can I make Cowboy Stew in a slow cooker?: Yes! Brown the meats first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.