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Homemade Cowboy Stew photo

Cowboy Stew

This Cowboy Stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly nights!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Stew:

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

Instructions

Directions:

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the kielbasa coins and cook until they’re browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the kielbasa and set it aside.
  • In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, and then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, and return the kielbasa to the pot.
  • Next, add the diced onion, carrots, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in 2 cups of the low-sodium beef broth and the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  • Now, add the diced butter potatoes and the drained kidney or pinto beans. Pour in the remaining 2 cups of beef broth. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
  • Let the Cowboy Stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. If you’re using frozen peas and corn, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Once the stew is ready, serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. Enjoy it as is or with some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  • Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
  • This stew also freezes well; simply portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.