Why Make This Recipe
Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. It’s a meal that brings together the comforting elements of bacon, beef, and beans, creating a satisfying one-pot supper. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table. Best of all, it’s easy to make, and the ingredients are simple and affordable.
How to Make Texas Cowboy Stew
To make Texas Cowboy Stew, start by gathering your ingredients and following these straightforward steps:
Ingredients:
- 5 slices bacon (chopped)
- 1 large onion (small dice)
- 4 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3-4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 (15-ounce) can sweet yellow corn (drained)
- 1 (4-ounce) can green chiles
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 (14-ounce) package beef kielbasa
Directions:
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, add the chopped bacon over medium-high heat. Cook until crispy, then remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside.
- Drain excess bacon fat, keeping one tablespoon in the pot to sauté the onions. If needed, pour the remaining grease into an empty bean can and let it cool before throwing it away.
- Add the diced onion to the pot over medium heat and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Next, add the ground beef and sprinkle it with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and broth to the pot and mix well.
- Add the beans, corn, green chiles, tomatoes, potatoes, sausage, and bacon back to the pot. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes.
How to Serve Texas Cowboy Stew
Serve Texas Cowboy Stew hot, ideally with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side. This stew is filling on its own, but these accompaniments add a nice touch. Garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavor and look of the dish.
How to Store Texas Cowboy Stew
To store Texas Cowboy Stew, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For long-term storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to thaw in the fridge first or use a microwave, and heat until it’s heated through.
Tips to Make Texas Cowboy Stew
- For extra spice, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the stew.
- You can use different meats, such as chicken or turkey, instead of ground beef.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, for more flavor and nutrition.
Variation (if any)
For a lighter version, you can substitute lean ground turkey for ground beef and use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. This keeps the dish flavorful while reducing calories.
FAQs
Can I make Texas Cowboy Stew in advance?
Yes! This stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! You can mix or match different beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is Texas Cowboy Stew gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you check the labels for gluten-free ingredients. Most of the ingredients are gluten-free, but it’s always good to double-check.