There’s something about Crockpot Cowboy Stew that wraps you in warmth and comfort. The rich aroma of seasoned beef, smoky sausage, and tender potatoes slow-cooking together is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This hearty dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.

I first came across this recipe during a camping trip, where it was a one-pot wonder cooked over the fire. Recreating it in a crockpot made it even easier while keeping that rustic, homestyle charm. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Get ready to add this hearty stew to your list of go-to meals. Crockpot Cowboy Stew combines the ease of slow cooking with big, bold flavors that feel like a warm hug on a cold day.

Effortless Cooking: This recipe practically cooks itself. Just throw everything into your crockpot, set the timer, and let it work its magic.
One-Pot Meal: No need to dirty extra pans or spend hours cleaning up. Everything from the meat to the vegetables simmers in one pot, saving you time and energy.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors only get better with time, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner later in the week.
Customizable: From adding extra veggies to adjusting the spice level, you can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

So, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a no-fuss dinner idea, Cowboy Stew is here to save the day.

Ingredients Notes

This Crockpot Cowboy Stew relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for a hearty and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Ground Beef: The base of this stew, ground beef adds a rich and savory flavor. Opt for an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of fat and flavor.
Smoked Sausage: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick that complements the beef beautifully. Slice into rounds for even cooking.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best, as they hold their shape while becoming tender and creamy. Peel them for a smoother texture or leave the skin on for a rustic feel.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These bring a burst of tanginess and mild heat. If you prefer less spice, substitute with regular diced tomatoes.
Corn and Beans: Canned corn and pinto beans add sweetness and creaminess to the stew while making it more filling.
Beef Broth: This creates the base of the stew, adding depth and tying all the ingredients together.
Seasonings: A blend of chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cumin creates that classic cowboy-inspired flavor profile.

Equipment

You’ll need a 6-quart slow cooker or larger for this recipe to ensure enough room for all the ingredients to cook evenly.

How to Make Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Making Crockpot Cowboy Stew is a breeze! With just a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a meal simmering away, ready to serve at dinnertime.

Brown the Meat: Start by browning 1 lb of ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to your crockpot. This step enhances the flavor and prevents excess grease from diluting the stew.
Add the Sausage and Veggies: Layer 1 pound of smoked sausage slices, diced potatoes, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 can of corn (drained).
Incorporate the Beans and Broth: Stir in 1 can of pinto beans (drained and rinsed) and pour in 4 cups of beef broth. This creates the hearty base for the stew.
Season Generously: Add 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of cumin. Stir to combine, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
Set It and Forget It: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, but it’s not required.
Check and Adjust: Taste the stew before serving. Add salt, pepper, or additional spices to suit your taste.

This stew is best served hot with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Storage Options

Crockpot Cowboy Stew stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: Transfer cooled stew to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Lay the bag flat for easy storage and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating from Frozen: Let the stew thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This versatile recipe invites creativity! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with plant-based sausage and add extra beans like black or kidney beans.
Different Protein: Use diced chicken, turkey sausage, or even leftover pulled pork for a unique twist.
Extra Veggies: Bulk it up with diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Cheesy Finish: Stir in shredded cheddar or top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions.

Experiment to make this recipe your own – it’s hard to go wrong with such a forgiving and flavorful dish.

There you have it – Crockpot Cowboy Stew, a hearty, comforting meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and ease of preparation, this stew is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Happy cooking!