Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s packed with tender beef, beans, and a medley of colorful vegetables. It’s warm, filling, and just the kind of stew that makes you feel ready to take on the day, with flavors that are simple but bold. The combination of spices and slow-cooked ingredients creates a wonderful blend that feels down-home and comforting.
I love making this stew when the weather starts to cool down or when I want something easy to throw together after a busy day. The best part is that it only gets better the next day, so I always make a big pot. One tip I’ve learned is to let it simmer low and slow for a few hours—it really helps all those flavors come together and makes the beef nice and tender. It’s like giving the stew a little extra love.
When I serve Texas Cowboy Stew, I usually pair it with simple cornbread or a crusty loaf to soak up all that tasty broth. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to kick back and relax. Plus, it’s great for sharing with family or friends because everyone loves a good, warm stew that fills you up and sticks with you. It’s a true crowd-pleaser in my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the stew, giving it a rich, meaty flavor. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey or even diced stew beef for bigger chunks of meat.
Potatoes: They add great texture and soak up flavors. Yukon gold or red potatoes work well, but sweet potatoes can be a tasty twist.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic here. You can substitute black beans or pinto beans if you like, or skip them for a lower-carb option.
Bell peppers & corn: These add color and sweetness. Frozen corn works fine if fresh isn’t available, and you can mix bell colors to your liking.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring that warm, smoky vibe. If you want it milder, reduce the chili powder; add cayenne if you like heat.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor and Tenderness in This Stew?
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until soft—they build the stew’s base flavor. Browning the beef well adds depth and locks in juices.
- Cook onions on medium until clear, don’t rush this step.
- Brown beef in batches to avoid steaming; this means better flavor.
- Add spices early so their flavors bloom with the meat.
- Simmer the stew low and slow, covered, so potatoes soften and meats and beans soak up the spices.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end to balance salt and heat.
These steps help create a stew that feels homemade and flavorful without much fuss!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven – perfect for even heat and slow simmering without burning.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring the stew gently without scraping the pot.
- Sharp knife – helps you chop vegetables and potatoes quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – sturdy surface for all your chopping prep work.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keeps your spice amounts balanced for the best flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for diced chuck roast or stew beef chunks for a heartier bite.
- Add diced smoked sausage for a smoky, meaty twist that pairs well with the spices.
- Include black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans for different textures and flavors.
- Stir in chopped green chilies or a splash of hot sauce to boost the heat and add zing.
- Mix in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack just before serving for creamy richness.
How to Make Texas Cowboy Stew?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 30-40 minutes for simmering the stew until the potatoes are soft and flavors are blended. So, plan for about 45-55 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies and Brown the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked all the way through. If there’s extra fat, drain it out.
2. Add Spices and Main Ingredients:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices coat the beef and onions evenly. Then, add diced potatoes, corn kernels, diced red and green bell peppers, diced tomatoes with their juice, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Mix everything together.
3. Simmer and Serve:
Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Taste the stew and add more salt or pepper if you’d like. Finally, ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh jalapeño slices and chopped cilantro. Serve your delicious Texas Cowboy Stew hot, with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Corn in This Stew?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well as fresh. Just add it straight to the pot—no need to thaw beforehand.
Can I Make Texas Cowboy Stew Ahead of Time?
Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
You can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or diced stew beef chunks. Just adjust the cooking time if using larger pieces to ensure they become tender.
