Hearty Cowboy Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food, evoking warm memories of campfires and hearty meals shared with friends. Picture a bubbling pot filled with tender chunks of beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich broth that fills the air with mouthwatering aromas. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

This dish isn’t just for cowboys; it’s perfect for anyone craving something cozy and satisfying. Whether you’re gathered around a fire pit or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Cowboy Stew promises to deliver an amazing flavor experience that warms you from the inside out.

I remember making Cowboy Stew during a camping trip when my friends declared it the best thing they’d ever tasted. Their delighted reactions made all the chopping worth it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option while still packing in the flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; choose one that feels heavy for its size.

• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors – red, yellow, and green – for visual appeal and varied flavors.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes to enhance your stew’s texture and richness.

• Kidney Beans: These add heartiness; rinse them well to reduce sodium content before adding.

• Beef Broth: Choose low-sodium beef broth so you can control the overall saltiness of the stew.

• Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin): These spices are essential for that cowboy flair; they bring warmth and complexity to each spoonful.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cowboy Stew

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion, bell peppers, and any other veggies you plan to include. This will make cooking smoother later on.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil and toss in your chopped onions. Sauté until they’re translucent and fragrant — about 5 minutes.

Add Ground Beef: Stir in the ground beef with a pinch of salt. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula while releasing that savory aroma.

Mix in Veggies: Toss in your bell peppers along with canned tomatoes. Stir well until everything is combined, letting those vibrant colors shine through.

Pour in Broth & Beans: Add beef broth and kidney beans into the pot. Mix thoroughly and bring everything to a gentle simmer while enjoying those delightful scents wafting through your kitchen.

Add Spices & Simmer Away!: Sprinkle chili powder and cumin into your stew. Allow it to simmer gently on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until all flavors meld perfectly together.

Enjoy this hearty Cowboy Stew hot off the stove or let it cool down so you can savor those flavors even more later!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make the best Cowboy Stew, start by browning the meat for deeper flavor. Next, cook onions and garlic until tender before adding vegetables and broth to create a delightful mix.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize Cowboy Stew with your favorite beans or seasonal veggies. Adding some chili powder can spice things up, while a splash of Worcestershire sauce deepens the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cowboy Stew in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Cowboy Stew brings back memories of chilly nights around the campfire, where friends gathered to enjoy good food and hearty laughter. It’s always a hit!

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat in Cowboy Stew?

Yes! Chicken or turkey works well in place of beef for lighter options.

What side dishes pair well with Cowboy Stew?

Serve with cornbread or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious broth.

How can I make Cowboy Stew vegetarian?

Replace meat with mushrooms and add extra beans for protein and texture.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cowboy Stew

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful spices simmered in a rich broth. Ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, Cowboy Stew is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and bell peppers.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions in oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Mix in bell peppers and diced tomatoes; stir well.
5. Pour in beef broth and add kidney beans; mix thoroughly and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in chili powder and cumin; let simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg