There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Cowboy Stew simmered to perfection in your crockpot. Imagine the aroma of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and savory beef filling your home—it’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

I first discovered this recipe during a camping trip, where a friend whipped it up over an open flame. Since then, I’ve adapted it for the crockpot, making it even more effortless to enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal. Let’s dive in and explore why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Stew

Get ready to add this Crockpot Cowboy Stew to your weekly rotation—it’s a crowd-pleaser in every sense of the word. Here’s what makes it so special:

First and foremost, it’s a complete meal in one pot. Packed with protein, veggies, and potatoes, it’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. No need to worry about side dishes; this stew has it all.

It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few minutes of prep time. Simply chop, dump, and let your crockpot do all the work. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Using affordable ingredients like ground beef, canned beans, and potatoes, you can feed a family or a small gathering without breaking the bank.

Finally, the flavors are out of this world! Smoky sausage, tender beef, and a medley of vegetables simmer together to create a rich and satisfying dish that tastes like it’s been cooked over an open fire.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Cowboy Stew lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component adds its own unique flavor and texture, coming together for the ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s take a closer look:

Ground Beef: This forms the base of the stew, adding richness and a satisfying heartiness. You can swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Smoked Sausage: The smoky flavor from the sausage elevates the dish. Choose a high-quality smoked sausage for the best results.
Potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds work beautifully, holding their shape and soaking up the stew’s flavors. Dice them into bite-sized chunks for even cooking.
Canned Beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans are the classic choices here. They add creaminess and an extra boost of protein.
Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: These create the stew’s savory, slightly tangy base. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a touch of smokiness.
Corn: Sweet corn kernels provide bursts of sweetness and color. Use frozen or canned corn for convenience.
Spices: A mix of chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cumin adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

You’ll also need a large crockpot to bring this all together, making it a true set-it-and-forget-it meal.

How To Make This Cowboy Stew

Creating this Crockpot Cowboy Stew is as simple as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

Start with the meat: In a skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.
Prepare the sausage: Slice 8 ounces of smoked sausage into rounds and add them to the crockpot. The sausage will release its smoky flavor as it cooks.
Chop the veggies: Dice 4 medium potatoes into chunks and finely chop 1 medium onion. Add these, along with 2 cups of frozen or canned corn, to the crockpot.
Add the beans and tomatoes: Drain and rinse 1 can of kidney beans, then add them to the pot along with 1 can of diced tomatoes and 1 can of tomato sauce.
Season it up: Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Let it simmer: Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, stir everything together, and cover. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld.

This stew is best served hot with a side of crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up every last drop.

Storage Options

One of the best parts about Cowboy Stew is how well it stores and reheats. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:

Refrigerator: Store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
Freezer: This stew freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating to maintain the stew’s consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of Cowboy Stew makes it perfect for experimenting. Here are some ways to customize it:

Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and double up on beans and vegetables. Sweet potatoes and bell peppers are excellent additions.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Use Different Proteins: Try ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even cubed pork for a twist.
Add Greens: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Make It Creamy: Swirl in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream just before serving for a luxurious finish.

Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand—the possibilities are endless!