Texas Cowboy Stew – A Hearty Southern Classic
If you’re looking for a meal that’s bold, filling, and packed with layers of flavor, look no further than Texas Cowboy Stew. This dish is the ultimate comfort food—a combination of ground beef, smoked sausage, bacon, beans, potatoes, and spices that simmer together to create a rich and satisfying stew.
Perfect for cold nights, family gatherings, game day parties, or even meal prep, Cowboy Stew is one of those recipes that feels rustic yet timeless. It’s a dish that captures the spirit of Texas: hearty, smoky, spicy, and meant to be shared.
Why Is It Called Cowboy Stew?
The name comes from its origins in the American Southwest. Cowboys on cattle drives needed one-pot meals that were easy to make, nutrient-dense, and filling. Ingredients like beans, potatoes, corn, and preserved meats (like bacon and sausage) were easy to carry and lasted a long time. Over the years, the recipe evolved, but the heart of it remains the same—a big pot of stew that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly, then drain excess fat.
2. Add Smoked Meats
Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and crumbled bacon. Cook for a few minutes to release their smoky flavor into the beef.
3. Add the Potatoes
Toss in the diced potatoes and stir so they absorb the flavors.
4. Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes
Mix in the kidney beans, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Season and Add Broth
Pour in beef broth, then add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer Slowly
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
7. Finish and Serve
Optional: stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for extra richness. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with bread or cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
- With Bread: Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, or biscuits to soak up the stew.
- Over Rice: Serve it over white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or tortilla chips for extra spice.
- Family Style: Serve in a big pot in the center of the table for a true cowboy gathering feel.
Tips & Variations
- Make it Spicier: Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder.
- Different Meats: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even venison.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add more beans and vegetables.
- Slow Cooker Version: Add all ingredients into a crockpot. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 9g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Cowboy Stew ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors get even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
2. What’s the best type of sausage for this recipe?
Smoked sausage or kielbasa works best, but you can also use chorizo for a spicier kick.
3. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
Yes. Use the sauté function for browning, then cook on high pressure for 12 minutes with a quick release.
4. What sides go best with Cowboy Stew?
Cornbread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Texas Cowboy Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a piece of culinary history that brings comfort and warmth to the table. With its smoky, hearty flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you crave a rustic, one-pot meal.