Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stew is packed with layers of savory flavor from the combination of tender ground beef, hearty sausage, and vegetables like potatoes, corn, and beans. The beef broth and spices bring it all together with the perfect amount of warmth and depth. Plus, it’s simple to make and will satisfy even the hungriest appetites. With the addition of optional cheese, it’s a creamy, filling meal your family will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 package (14 ounces) skinless smoked sausage, sliced
- 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 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Directions
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the sausage is heated through.
- Add Potatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced potatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir everything together to combine.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Optional Step – Add Cheese: For a creamy, cheesy finish, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian version. You can add more beans and veggies for extra texture.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the stew for an extra kick of heat.
- Cheese Options: Use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
- Add-Ins: Include sautéed bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can swap kidney beans and black beans with pinto beans, great northern beans, or even a mix of beans, depending on your preference.
Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?
You can, but smoked sausage adds a deeper flavor. If using fresh sausage, you might want to add a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
Is this stew spicy?
The stew has a mild to medium spice level thanks to chili powder and smoked paprika. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or a bit of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew can be made ahead of time and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
How do I know when the potatoes are tender?
Pierce the potatoes with a fork. If it slides through easily, they’re done!
Can I make this in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker after cooking the beef and vegetables and let it cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
Yes, but Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better and provide a creamier texture.
How can I reduce the fat content?
Use turkey sausage, half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and lean meat for garnish.
Conclusion
Texas Cowboy Stew is the perfect comfort food for a cozy meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with everything you need in one pot. The combination of beef, sausage, and beans makes for a filling, satisfying dish, while the seasonings give it a little kick. Whether served with a side of cornbread or on its own, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!
Texas Cowboy Stew
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal combining ground beef, smoked sausage, beans, vegetables, and a rich beef broth, topped with optional melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and filling dish.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 package (14 ounces) skinless smoked sausage, sliced
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 ½ cups beef broth
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Stir in diced potatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with juice). Combine well.
- Pour in beef broth and stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Optional: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
Swap out the beans for your favorite variety (e.g., pinto beans or great northern beans).
For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Try using Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor.
For added veggies, throw in some sautéed bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
