One Pot Cowboy Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: One Pot Cowboy Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 4 slices bacon, chopped; 24 ounces kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2 inch slices; 24 ounces ground beef (80/20); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1.5 teaspoons salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes, with liquid; 32 ounces baked beans, with liquid; 7 ounces chopped green chilies, with liquid; 15 ounces sweet corn, with liquid; 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes; 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Introduction to One Pot Cowboy Stew

One Pot Cowboy Stew is the perfect dish for those cozy evenings when you want a hearty meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. This comforting stew combines savory meats, beans, and vegetables into a delightful one-pot wonder that warms the soul. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to please. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s ideal for any occasion!

A Personal Story Behind My One Pot Cowboy Stew Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy hearty meals after long days. One of our favorites was a rich, flavorful stew that my grandmother made, packed with all the good stuff. As I ventured into cooking, I wanted to recreate that warm memory. This One Pot Cowboy Stew became my go-to recipe, combining my love for cooking with the nostalgia of family gatherings. It’s a dish that not only fills your belly but also your heart, creating new memories while honoring the old ones.

What Makes This One Pot Cowboy Stew Recipe Special?

What sets this Cowboy Stew apart is its simplicity and the depth of flavor developed in just one pot. The combination of crispy bacon, smoky kielbasa, and tender ground beef creates a symphony of tastes that is hard to resist. The sweetness of the baked beans, paired with the zest of the green chilies, brings a unique twist that makes this stew stand out from traditional recipes. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that allows for easy modifications based on your preferences, whether you like it spicier or packed with more vegetables.

The Full One Pot Cowboy Stew Recipe

Ingredients

4 slices bacon, chopped

2 (12-ounce) packages kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2 inch slices
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder

1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, with liquid
2 (16-ounce) cans baked beans (sweeter) or ranch beans (more savory), with liquid
1 (7-ounce) can chopped green chilies, with liquid

1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, with liquid
2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 cup water

2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Instructions

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain. Tip: Make sure to get the bacon nice and crispy for the best flavor.
In the same pot, brown the kielbasa sausage in the bacon drippings on both sides. Remove and set aside with the bacon. Tip: The drippings add a wonderful smoky flavor to the sausage.

Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic to the pot. Brown the beef until no longer pink. Sprinkle the flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder over the beef. Stir and cook for 1 minute to incorporate the flavors. Tip: This step helps to thicken the stew as it cooks.
Add the diced tomatoes, baked beans, green chilies, sweet corn, potatoes, bacon, sausage, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Tip: If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the amount of water added.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Tip: Fresh parsley adds a nice color and freshness to the dish.

Add more water if the stew is too thick for your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for One Pot Cowboy Stew

This One Pot Cowboy Stew is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. For a complete meal, consider a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the stew. You can also customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even sweet potatoes for added sweetness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your taste; if you like it spicier, add more chili powder or even some jalapeños!

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Cowboy Stew

Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze One Pot Cowboy Stew?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The flavors are mild enough for children, and it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables. You can adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.

Can I substitute the meats in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use other meats like chicken or turkey if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.