This Easy Cowboy Stew is packed with tasty ingredients like ground beef, beans, and veggies. It’s a warm, filling dish that feels like a big hug on a chilly day!
Making this stew is super simple: just throw everything in a pot and let it bubble away. I love having leftovers for lunch—it’s even better the next day! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the stew, giving it a rich flavor. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and a nice tang. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can use around 2 cups, just chop them up. Alternatively, use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans are traditional choices for cowboys. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap these for black beans or chickpeas—they work wonderfully!
Spices: The cumin and chili powder give that classic southwestern flair. Feel free to adjust them or add other spices like oregano or cayenne for more heat.
Bell Pepper: I used green bell pepper for a slight crunch and sweetness. Red or yellow peppers are great alternatives, adding a sweeter flavor to the stew.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef for Stew?
Cooking the ground beef properly is key to a delicious stew. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating your pot on medium heat. This ensures the beef cooks evenly.
- Add the oil and let it heat up before adding the onion. This step adds flavor right from the start.
- Once you add the beef, break it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned all over, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s no longer pink.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it before adding the other ingredients to keep your stew from being greasy.
By following these steps, you’ll get a flavorful base for your Cowboy Stew, and it will turn out nice and hearty!
Easy Cowboy Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes of cooking, so you’ll need around 40 minutes in total. It’s quick and straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something hearty without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. This base will add lots of flavor!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. If there’s excess grease, you can drain it at this point—a lean beef works best for a healthier stew.
3. Spice It Up:
Stir in the diced green bell pepper along with the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let these spices cook together with the beef for about 2 minutes, enhancing the stew’s flavors.
4. Add the Other Ingredients:
Now, pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices), beef broth, kidney beans, pinto beans, and frozen corn. Give it all a good stir to combine. This colorful mix is what makes your cowboy stew hearty and nutritious!
5. Simmer the Stew:
Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the stew thickens and all the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with optional toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of deliciousness.
Enjoy this hearty and comforting cowboy stew—a perfect meal for any day of the week!
FAQ for Easy Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that chicken might require a bit less cooking time, so monitor it closely to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make this cowboy stew vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using plant-based protein crumbles or lentils instead. Just ensure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth as well!
Can I Prepare This Stew in Advance?
Yes! This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, and you might even find that the flavors have developed further!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.
