Name: Cowboy Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided, plus additional as needed; 13 ounces kielbasa cut into ¼-inch-thick coins; 1 pound lean ground beef 90/10; ½ medium yellow onion diced, about 1 cup; 2 medium carrots diced into ¼-inch pieces, about 1 cup; 1 red bell pepper diced, about 1 cup; 3 garlic cloves minced, about 1 tablespoon; 2 cups diced butter potatoes (about 7 small potatoes); 1 (13-ounce) bag frozen mixed peas and corn; 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth divided; 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15-ounce) can kidney or pinto beans; Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 89 reviews

This Cowboy Stew Recipe is a hearty, flavorful gem that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Packed with savory kielbasa, seasoned ground beef, vibrant veggies, and tender potatoes simmered in a rich tomato and beef broth, it delivers comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something cozy and filling, this stew combines robust spices with fresh ingredients to create a perfect balance of boldness and home-style goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A deep white bowl filled with chunky vegetable soup that shows at least four layers: the base layer is a rich brownish-red broth, filled with diced orange carrots, green peas, creamy white potato cubes, and dark red kidney beans. Mixed in are browned small bits of ground meat and slices of round sausage with a reddish-brown color. The top layer is sprinkled with green chopped herbs, adding a fresh touch. The soup has a shiny, slightly thick liquid, with a silver spoon resting inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a wooden table with a soft textured off-white cloth in the background, and the photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cowboy Stew Recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients, each playing an essential role to build layers of texture, color, and flavor. From the smoky kielbasa to the sweet carrots and earthy beans, every component contributes to making this stew both hearty and wholesome.

Extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons divided: Provides a rich base for browning meat and sautéing vegetables, enhancing overall flavor.
Kielbasa, 13 ounces, sliced: Adds smoky, savory notes and a satisfying bite perfect for this stew’s rustic vibe.
Lean ground beef 90/10, 1 pound: Gives a meaty, juicy foundation with just enough fat to keep it tender and flavorful.
Yellow onion, ½ medium diced: Brings sweetness and depth when softened alongside other veggies.
Carrots, 2 medium diced: Offer subtle sweetness and a pop of vibrant orange color.
Red bell pepper, 1 diced: Adds a gentle crunch and brightens the stew visually and in taste.
Garlic cloves, 3 minced: Infuses the stew with aromatic warmth and a savory kick.
Chili powder, 1 ½ teaspoons: Lends a smoky depth and a little heat that ties all the flavors together.
Cumin, 1 teaspoon: Brings earthiness and complexity to the stew’s spice profile.
Kosher salt, 1 teaspoon: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Low-sodium beef broth, 4 cups divided: The flavorful liquid base that melds everything into a comforting stew.
Crushed tomatoes, 28-ounce can: Adds acidity, richness, and a lovely reddish hue.
Diced butter potatoes, 2 cups: Provides heartiness and creamy texture when cooked tender.
Kidney or pinto beans, 15-ounce can: Brings protein, fiber, and a soft bite to complement the meat and veggies.
Frozen mixed peas and corn, 13-ounce bag: Adds a burst of color, sweetness, and texture at the end of cooking.
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish: Offers a fresh, bright finish that lifts the stew right before serving.

How to Make Cowboy Stew Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the kielbasa slices and cook them undisturbed until they become nicely browned and crispy, about 2 minutes per side. This step is essential because it develops deep savory flavors and a bit of char that later infuses the stew. Once browned, transfer the kielbasa to a plate and set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Ground Beef

Next, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Place the block of ground beef in one piece, letting it sear undisturbed for about 3 minutes to develop a rich crust. Flip and sear the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Then break the beef into four pieces and cook for another minute before crumbling it further. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked at this point because it will finish cooking in the stew. Transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables and Spices

If the pot looks dry, add a bit more olive oil. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and red bell pepper, cooking them gently while stirring occasionally until they soften—about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and kosher salt, cooking for just a minute longer until you can smell that wonderful blend of spices filling the kitchen. This aromatic base builds the heart of your Cowboy Stew Recipe.

Step 4: Build the Stew

Pour in about one cup of beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift all those tasty browned bits stuck to the surface. Then add the rest of the broth along with crushed tomatoes, the seared ground beef and its juices, the crispy kielbasa, diced potatoes, and drained beans. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low to gently maintain a simmer and let the stew cook for 12 to 15 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften to tender perfection while all the flavors mingle and deepen. The slow simmer makes this Cowboy Stew Recipe truly hearty and comforting.

Step 6: Add Frozen Vegetables and Finish

Finally, stir in the frozen peas and corn. Cook just 1 to 2 minutes until the peas become a bright green and everything is heated through. Remember to keep the heat low so those sweet vegetables stay crisp and fresh-tasting. Serve your Cowboy Stew Recipe hot, topped generously with fresh chopped cilantro to brighten every bite.

How to Serve Cowboy Stew Recipe

The image shows a metal pot with a dark brown broth filled with small, diced red and orange vegetables floating inside. Bright red sauce is being poured into the pot from a container held by a woman's hand on the left side of the frame. The sauce creates a swirling pattern on the surface of the broth as it mixes in. The pot has some food stains near the rim, sitting on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro is the perfect way to finish this Cowboy Stew Recipe. It adds a lovely pop of freshness and color that complements the richness of the stew. If you like a bit of extra warmth, a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce works beautifully too.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or buttery cornbread pair exceptionally well with this stew. They soak up all the savory juices and make for a satisfying, complete meal. A crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables provide a fresh balance to the rich flavors in the stew.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Cowboy Stew Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls or over steamed rice to change up the texture and presentation. For gatherings, consider individual small cast iron pots for a rustic, cozy vibe that’ll impress your guests. Garnish with colorful herbs and perhaps a lemon wedge on the side for variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cowboy Stew Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the stew taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This stew freezes wonderfully, making it great for meal prep or busy nights. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag to store the stew for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that potatoes may become a bit grainy after freezing, but since they’re a supporting ingredient, this rarely affects the overall deliciousness.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. You can also use a microwave for convenience. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage instead of kielbasa?

Absolutely! Smoked sausage, chorizo, or even andouille can add unique flavors and keep that smoky depth that makes Cowboy Stew Recipe special. Just be sure to slice and brown them well for maximum flavor.

Is this stew spicy? How can I adjust the heat?

This recipe has mild to moderate heat due to the chili powder and cumin. To spice it up, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños during the vegetable sauté. For less heat, use mild chili powder or reduce the amount of spices.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

You can, by substituting the meat and sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and additional beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add smoked paprika to replicate the depth of flavor. The stew will still be deliciously satisfying.

What’s the best type of potato for this stew?

Butter potatoes or Yukon Gold are ideal because they hold their shape well while becoming tender. Avoid waxy potatoes that may fall apart during simmering.

How thick is the stew? Can I make it thicker or thinner?

The stew has a medium-thick broth that’s comforting without being too heavy. If you prefer it thicker, simmer a few minutes longer to reduce the liquid or mash some of the potatoes into the broth. For a thinner soup-like consistency, add more beef broth or water.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that feels like a big, warm Texas-sized hug, this Cowboy Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s easy to prepare, packed with layers of delicious flavors, and perfect for feeding a crowd or cozying up on a cooler evening. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite comfort food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!