This hearty stew has become my ultimate comfort food because it combines savory ground beef, smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and colorful vegetables in a rich, perfectly seasoned broth. Best of all, it all cooks in one pot—less cleanup, more flavor! It makes enough for leftovers, and like all great stews, it’s even better the next day.
My Family’s Favorite Texas Cowboy Stew
This one-pot meal takes me back to my grandma’s kitchen in Texas. The mix of beef, sausage, beans, and veggies simmered together feels like pure comfort in a bowl. It’s a go-to recipe for family gatherings—always a crowd favorite.
A Little Story Behind This Recipe
Living in Texas taught me the beauty of authentic frontier cooking. Cowboy stew has its roots in filling meals made during long cattle drives. Over time, the recipe evolved in my kitchen, but it still keeps its rustic charm and soul-warming goodness.
Your Shopping List
Ground Beef: 1 lb – use good quality for best flavor
Kielbasa Sausage: 12 oz – sliced into bite-size pieces
Potatoes: 3 medium – diced
Beans: 1 can (15 oz) – pinto or kidney
Corn: 1 can (15 oz) – drained
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: 1 can (15 oz)
Beef Broth: 4 cups
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper
Optional Add-ins: Bell peppers, carrots, bacon
Making Your Stew
1. Brown the Meat
Heat a large pot and brown the ground beef and sausage. Drain excess fat, but leave a little for flavor.
2. Add Vegetables
Add diced potatoes, beans, corn, and tomatoes. Stir to combine and begin building flavor.
3. Season and Simmer
Pour in broth and add spices. Bring to a boil, then lower heat. Simmer for 30–40 minutes until potatoes are tender.
4. Adjust Consistency
If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer uncovered to thicken.
5. Time to Eat
Ladle into bowls and top with parsley or cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comfort!
Perfect Pairings
Cornbread – A must-have in my house!
Biscuits – Ideal for soaking up that rich broth.
Simple Salad – Lightens the meal a bit.
Drinks – Pairs great with beer or sweet tea.
My Kitchen Secrets
Don’t Skip Browning: Adds deep flavor.
Control Liquid: Start with less broth and adjust as needed.
Customize It: Add chili powder, extra veggies, or bacon.
Make Ahead: Tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4.
→ What can I use instead of kielbasa?
Any smoked sausage works: try andouille for heat or chicken sausage for a lighter twist.
→ Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! Freeze for up to 3 months. Potatoes may soften slightly when thawed.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne, spicy sausage, or diced jalapeños.
→ Can I use different beans?
Yes! Use kidney beans, black beans, or a mix.
One-Pot Cowboy Stew Recipe
A robust stew with ground beef, sausage, beans, and veggies in a flavorful tomato base. The ultimate cold-weather comfort food!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
2 packages kielbasa sausage, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
4 baking potatoes, diced
2 cans (15 oz) pinto beans with liquid
1 can (15.2 oz) corn, drained
2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with chilies
10 oz frozen mixed vegetables
4 cups water
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
see next page
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