Cowboy Stew is the epitome of a rich, satisfying meal that brings together a symphony of flavors in one pot. This stew is not just any ordinary dish—it’s a hearty, meaty, and smoky masterpiece that promises to fill you up and keep you coming back for more. Packed with a trio of meats, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and the robust flavors of baked beans and green chiles, this stew is a true cowboy classic that sticks to your ribs and warms you from the inside out.

At 12 Tomatoes, we’ve explored a variety of “cowboy” themed dishes, from Cowboy Chicken to Cowboy Salad, but this Cowboy Stew stands out as a favorite. The combination of bacon, kielbasa sausage, and ground beef creates a deeply savory base that’s perfectly complemented by the sweetness of corn and tomatoes and the subtle heat of green chiles. The use of baked beans instead of regular canned beans adds a unique depth of flavor, making this stew a standout on any table.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 (12 oz) packages kielbasa sausage, sliced 1/2 inch thick
• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
• 1 white onion, diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
• 2 (16 oz each) cans baked beans
• 1 (7 oz) can chopped green chiles, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, undrained
• 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup water
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. Cook the Bacon:

In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp and golden. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot. These drippings will add a smoky richness to the stew.

2. Brown the Sausage:

Add the kielbasa sausage slices to the pot with the bacon drippings. Brown the sausage on both sides, ensuring it absorbs the bacon flavor. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside with the bacon.

3. Cook the Beef and Onions:

Next, add the ground beef and diced onion to the pot. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.

4. Season and Thicken:

Season the beef mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle the flour and chili powder over the beef, stirring well to combine. Cook for about a minute to allow the flour to thicken the stew and the chili powder to infuse the meat with its warm, smoky flavor.

5. Combine the Ingredients:

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, baked beans, chopped green chiles, and sweet corn, including their juices. Add the cubed potatoes, cooked bacon, and browned sausage. Stir in 1 cup of water to bring everything together. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

6. Simmer and Serve:

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a stew that’s rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more water until you reach your desired consistency.

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and serve hot.

Bonus Tip:

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika to the stew during the simmering process. These ingredients will enhance the stew’s smoky profile and add a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.

Conclusion:

Cowboy Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its rich, meaty base and layers of smoky, savory flavors, this stew is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a cozy night in. Easy to prepare and full of robust ingredients, Cowboy Stew is destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve it up with a side of crusty bread or cornbread, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!