Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew Recipe

The Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew Recipe is a hearty, comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender beef, smoky sausage, potatoes, beans, corn and tomatoes in one delicious pot. The slow cooker does most of the work, making this recipe simple and convenient.

Every bite is packed with savory, smoky and slightly spicy flavors. This stew is filling enough to serve as a complete family dinner. If you want to learn How to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew, this easy recipe is a great choice.

The Secret Behind This Delicious

• The secret to a flavorful cowboy stew is using a combination of hearty ingredients. Beef provides rich flavor, while smoked sausage adds a delicious smoky taste.
• Potatoes make the stew filling and comforting. Beans and corn add extra texture and natural sweetness.
• Tomatoes create a flavorful base for all the ingredients. A little chili powder and garlic give the stew a warm, savory flavor.
• Cooking everything slowly allows the flavors to blend together. The result is a thick and satisfying stew that tastes even better the next day.

Recipe Card

• Recipe Name: Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew Recipe
• Servings: 8 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Ladle
• Serving bowls

Ingredients You Need for Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 ounces smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can sweet corn, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Sour cream
• Jalapeño slices
• Hot sauce

Instructions

1. Brown The Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

2. Drain The Beef

Drain excess grease from the cooked beef. This helps prevent the finished stew from becoming too greasy.

3. Add The Onion

Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for three to four minutes until it becomes soft and slightly golden.

4. Add The Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute. Avoid cooking the garlic too long.

5. Prepare The Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker. This makes serving and cleanup easier.

6. Add The Beef Mixture

Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture into the slow cooker.

7. Add The Sausage

Add the sliced kielbasa sausage. Spread the pieces evenly throughout the slow cooker.

8. Add The Vegetables

Add the potatoes, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes and tomatoes with green chilies.

9. Add The Broth

Pour the beef broth over the ingredients. Add Worcestershire sauce for extra savory flavor.

10. Add The Seasonings

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt and black pepper.

11. Stir Everything Together

Use a large spoon to gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.

12. Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

13. Check The Texture

Check the potatoes with a fork. They should be soft enough to pierce easily without falling apart.

14. Adjust The Seasoning

Taste the stew before serving. Add extra salt, pepper, chili powder or hot sauce if needed.

15. Serve Warm

Ladle the hot cowboy stew into bowls. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Brown the ground beef before slow cooking for better flavor.
• Drain excess grease before adding the beef to the slow cooker.
• Use smoked kielbasa for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Cut potatoes into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Baby potatoes work especially well in this stew.
• Add extra chili powder for more heat.
• Use pinto, kidney or baked beans based on your preference.
• Add bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky variation.
• Add shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
• Serve with cornbread for a classic combination.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520 kcal
Protein	31g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	22g
Fiber	9g
Sugar	8g
Sodium	1,150mg

Nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on ingredients and serving sizes.

Serving Suggestions

• This Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew Recipe is hearty enough to serve on its own. However, a few simple sides can make the meal even better.
• Warm cornbread is one of the best choices. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with the savory stew.
• You can also serve the stew with crusty bread or homemade biscuits. They are perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato broth.
• For a fresh contrast, serve a simple green salad on the side.
• Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions and jalapeños also make delicious toppings.
• If you enjoy spicy food, add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce before serving.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Allow leftover stew to cool slightly before storing it.
• Place the leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate them for up to four days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot. Stir halfway through reheating.
• You can also reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
• Add a small splash of beef broth if the stew becomes too thick.
• This cowboy stew also freezes well. Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
• Thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew Recipe

What is cowboy stew?

Cowboy stew is a hearty one-pot meal made with ingredients such as beef, sausage, potatoes, beans, vegetables and tomatoes. Different versions use different meats and vegetables.

Can I make cowboy stew without sausage?

Yes. You can leave out the sausage and use extra ground beef. You can also replace it with smoked turkey sausage.

Can I use ground turkey?

Absolutely. Ground turkey can replace ground beef for a lighter version. Smoked sausage can still provide plenty of flavor.

Can I use canned baked beans?

Yes. Baked beans can add sweetness and barbecue flavor. They work especially well if you enjoy a sweeter stew.

Can I make this cowboy stew spicy?

Yes. Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, hot sauce or extra green chilies for more heat.

Why is my cowboy stew too thick?

The potatoes and beans can naturally thicken the stew. Add beef broth a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency.

Why is my cowboy stew too watery?

Leave the slow cooker uncovered for a short time near the end of cooking. You can also mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth to naturally thicken it.

Can I make cowboy stew ahead of time?

Yes. Cowboy stew is excellent for meal prep. The flavors often become even better after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew Recipe is a simple and satisfying meal packed with beef, smoked sausage, potatoes, beans, corn and tomatoes. The slow cooker makes preparation easy while giving the ingredients plenty of time to develop rich flavor.

It is perfect for busy families, cold evenings, weekend gatherings and easy meal preparation. You can also customize it with your favorite vegetables, beans, seasonings and toppings.

Now you know How to make Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew with simple ingredients and easy steps. Gather the Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cowboy Stew, let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy a warm bowl of hearty homemade comfort food.