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Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe

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Try this easy Texas Cowboy Stew recipe packed with ground beef, sausage, beans, and potatoes for a deliciously smoky, hearty meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 package (14 ounces) skinless smoked sausage, sliced
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, 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
  • 2 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional

Instructions

  • Brown the beef with onion and garlic: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. This step builds the flavor base, so take your time here – don’t rush! (Drain off any excess fat if it looks greasy.)
  • Add the smoked sausage and bacon: Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and crumbled bacon, and let them cook for a few minutes until the sausage is heated through and slightly browned. This little step releases all those smoky flavors, which will make your stew extra delicious.
  • Add the potatoes: Throw in the diced potatoes and give everything a good stir. The potatoes will cook down and absorb the flavors as the stew simmers, giving it a satisfying texture.
  • Add beans, corn, and tomatoes: Now, pour in the kidney beans, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
  • Pour in the broth and season: Add the beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together, bring it to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to low.
  • Simmer until tender: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check the seasoning towards the end. (I sometimes add a bit more salt or a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.)
  • Optional: Add cheese: If you’re using cheddar cheese, stir it in just before serving. The cheese melts into the broth, adding a creamy, comforting finish.

Notes

Serving ideas: How to enjoy Texas cowboy stew

Serve this stew with a side of warm cornbread or crusty French bread to soak up the broth. For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle some chopped green onions or cilantro on top. If you like it creamy, a dollop of sour cream on each bowl is a great addition. And for a bit of crunch, try topping with some tortilla strips or even crushed tortilla chips. This stew is a meal in itself, but a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements it nicely if you want to add some greens.

  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner