Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew Recipe

There's nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of a Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew bubbling away. This rustic dish is packed with tender beef, savory beans, and hearty vegetables, making it a true crowd-pleaser for busy families or cozy nights in.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly winter day when I needed something warm and filling to keep my family satisfied. Since then, it has become a staple in our home, perfect for when I want an easy, hands-off meal that's big on flavor. Let me show you why this cowboy stew is about to become your favorite too!

Why You'll Love This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food. This Cowboy Stew is more than just a meal—it's an experience of rich flavors and effortless preparation.

First, this recipe is a breeze to prepare. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

It's also incredibly hearty. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and beans makes it satisfying enough to keep even the hungriest appetites happy.

This stew is a budget-friendly hero. Using pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it’s highly adaptable. Whether you prefer spicy flavors or have picky eaters to please, you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your family's tastes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cowboy Stew lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering its hearty, bold flavor.

Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without excess grease. You can also swap in ground turkey or sausage for a different twist.

Potatoes: Russet potatoes work wonderfully here, as they hold their shape and absorb all the savory juices. Feel free to use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a unique flavor.

Canned Beans: Pinto beans and kidney beans are my go-to options for their creamy texture and earthy flavor. Be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the crockpot to reduce sodium.

Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies add just the right amount of zest. If you prefer a milder stew, use plain diced tomatoes instead.

Smoked Sausage: This adds a smoky, savory depth that truly elevates the stew. Slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces so it melds beautifully with the other ingredients.

If you don’t already have one, a reliable 6-quart crockpot is perfect for this recipe. It gives everything enough room to cook evenly without crowding.

How To Make This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Making this stew is as easy as it gets. You'll love how the crockpot does all the heavy lifting, letting you focus on other things while it cooks.

Start by browning your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. This step adds flavor and ensures the meat is fully cooked before going into the crockpot. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Next, prepare your potatoes by peeling and cutting them into bite-sized chunks. Layer them at the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking.

Add the browned beef, followed by the sliced smoked sausage, beans, and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in your favorite seasonings—paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne work beautifully.

Pour in beef broth until the ingredients are just covered. This creates a rich, flavorful base that ties everything together.

Set your crockpot to low and let the stew cook for 6-8 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the potatoes will become tender. If you're in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours instead.

When the stew is ready, give it a good stir and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve it hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Storage Options

This Cowboy Stew is perfect for meal prep and leftovers, storing beautifully in the fridge or freezer.

To store in the refrigerator, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

When reheating, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe is one of its best features. Here are a few ways to customize it:

Add a Tex-Mex twist by incorporating corn and a dash of taco seasoning for a bold, spicy flavor.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef and sausage for plant-based alternatives or additional beans. Lentils make a great addition as well.

Prefer a creamier stew? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream just before serving.

If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.

Finally, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, and celery all make wonderful additions to this hearty dish.

Now it's your turn to make this delicious, comforting meal! Once you've tried it, you'll see why this Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew is destined to become a family favorite.

Print