There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of cowboy stew simmering away in your kitchen. This hearty, flavor-packed dish combines tender chunks of meat, savory beans, and a medley of vegetables in a rich tomato broth that warms you from the inside out.

I first came across this recipe during a camping trip with friends. With a few simple ingredients tossed into a pot, we had a meal that brought everyone around the fire, bowls in hand, eager for seconds. Since then, it’s become a family favorite – perfect for busy weeknights or when we crave something filling and comforting.

Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a permanent spot on your recipe roster.

Why You'll Love This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Ste

Get ready to fall head over boots for this easy, hearty recipe. Crockpot Cowboy Stew is a crowd-pleaser with a mix of flavors and textures that make every bite satisfying.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic while you tackle your day. It’s truly a “set it and forget it” meal, perfect for busy schedules.

Next, it’s budget-friendly. This recipe uses pantry staples like canned beans and diced tomatoes, alongside affordable cuts of meat like ground beef or sausage. You can feed a hungry family without breaking the bank.

It’s also versatile and customizable. Whether you love spicy flavors, want to add more veggies, or need to accommodate dietary preferences, this stew is incredibly forgiving and adaptable.

Finally, it’s perfect for leftovers. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day. A big batch means you’ll have lunch or dinner ready for later in the week – win-win!

Ready to learn how to make it? Let’s start with the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Crockpot Cowboy Stew lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one adds to the robust, satisfying flavor that makes this dish a winner.

Ground beef or sausage: The foundation of this recipe, adding a rich and savory depth. Use lean ground beef or a mix of beef and pork sausage for extra flavor.
Canned beans: Pinto beans, kidney beans, or black beans all work beautifully here. They add protein and a creamy texture.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies: These bring a tangy kick with a hint of spice. Regular diced tomatoes work too if you prefer a milder stew.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape and absorb the stew’s flavors.
Frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture. Fresh or canned corn also works if that’s what you have on hand.
Beef broth: Forms the flavorful base of the stew. Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Spices: Chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin bring smoky warmth to the stew. Adjust to taste for your preferred spice level.

Optional equipment: A large crockpot (6-quart or larger) is ideal for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven can work for stovetop preparation.

How to Make This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Creating this crockpot masterpiece is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you by dinnertime.

Brown the meat: Start by browning your ground beef or sausage in a skillet over medium heat. This step adds depth and ensures the meat doesn’t clump together in the stew. Drain any excess grease before transferring the meat to your crockpot.
Prep the potatoes: While the meat browns, peel and dice your potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Add them directly to the crockpot along with the meat.
Add the veggies and beans: Pour in the canned beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and frozen corn. No need to thaw the corn – it will cook perfectly in the crockpot.
Season and add broth: Sprinkle the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin over the ingredients. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring everything is submerged. Give it a good stir to combine.
Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve and enjoy: Taste the stew before serving and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheese if desired.

Storage Options

Cowboy stew is perfect for make-ahead meals and storing leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Transfer the stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezing: Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Variations and Substitutions

This cowboy stew recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Spicy kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and add more beans or lentils. Vegetable broth can replace the beef broth.
Different proteins: Use diced chicken, turkey, or even leftover steak instead of ground beef.
Extra veggies: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
Thicker stew: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is meant to be versatile and fun.

There you have it – a hearty, comforting Crockpot Cowboy Stew that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe has you covered. Try it out and make it your own!