Slow Cooker Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish loaded with ground beef, sausage, potatoes, beans, and vegetables. It’s a perfect comfort meal that’s easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors of this classic Texas-style stew.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat and transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, pinto beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, beef broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Stew
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Once the stew is ready, give it a good stir. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or cornbread. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Potato Choice: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for this recipe, as they hold their shape during cooking.
- Browning the Meat: Browning the ground beef and sausage before adding them to the slow cooker adds extra flavor to the stew.
- Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder stew, omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add extra cayenne or use spicy sausage.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the slow cooker and start cooking.
Variations
- Chicken Cowboy Stew: Substitute the ground beef with diced chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Cowboy Stew: Omit the meat and add extra beans, such as black beans or chickpeas, for a hearty vegetarian option. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Cheesy Cowboy Stew: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a rich and cheesy twist.
- Spicy Chorizo Stew: Use chorizo sausage instead of smoked sausage for a spicier, smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Canned Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned diced potatoes. Add them during the last hour of cooking to avoid them becoming too soft.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Cowboy Stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What Can I Serve with Texas Cowboy Stew?
This stew pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
Slow Cooker Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender meat, flavorful spices, and a mix of vegetables and beans, this stew is both comforting and satisfying. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a warm bowl of this classic Texas-style dish. Give this recipe a try, and savor the rich flavors of cowboy comfort food!
