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Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food, blending a robust mix of meats, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and savory beans into one satisfying dish. This stew isn’t just another hearty meal—it’s a rich, smoky, and meaty masterpiece that delivers a depth of flavor sure to keep you coming back for more. With a trio of bacon, kielbasa sausage, and ground beef, combined with the sweetness of corn, the zest of green chiles, and the hearty richness of baked beans, this dish is a true cowboy classic.
At 12 Tomatoes, we’ve delved into various “cowboy” dishes, but this Cowboy Stew stands out as a favorite. The combination of ingredients creates a deeply savory base, balanced by sweet and spicy elements, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
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:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot. These drippings will add a smoky depth to the stew.
- Brown the Sausage: Add the kielbasa slices to the pot with the bacon drippings. Brown them on both sides, letting them absorb the bacon flavor. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.
- Cook the Beef and Onions: 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 until fragrant.
- 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 thicken the stew and infuse the meat with the chili powder’s warm, smoky flavor.
- 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.
- Simmer and Serve: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld into a rich, savory, and satisfying stew. If it becomes too thick, add a bit more water to 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 pop of color and freshness, and serve hot.
Bonus Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika during the simmering process. These ingredients will enhance the stew’s smoky profile and take it to the next level.
Conclusion: Cowboy Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a hearty, comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its rich, meaty base and layers of smoky, savory flavors, this stew is perfect for feeding a 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 with crusty bread or cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience!
