If you’re craving a meal that’s hearty, full of flavor, and perfect for cozy nights, you’ve simply got to try this Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe. It’s like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, packed with tender ground beef, smoky kielbasa, colorful veggies, and a beautiful blend of spices that give it that authentic Texas cowboy spirit. Whether you’ve had a long day or want to impress your friends with a simple, satisfying dinner, this stew delivers every time with minimal prep and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering a stew bursting with texture, color, and bold flavors. You’ve got hearty proteins, fresh veggies, and the perfect touch of seasoning that work together harmoniously over a slow simmer.
- 1.5 lbs ground beef: The rich, savory base that makes this stew so filling and flavorful.
- 1 lb package kielbasa sausage (sliced): Adds a smoky, juicy component that elevates the stew.
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth to balance the meat.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses every bite with an aromatic punch.
- 3 large gold potatoes (peeled and diced): Give the stew a comforting, hearty texture.
- 30 oz canned pinto beans (rinsed and drained): Adds smoothness and body, plus a boost of protein.
- 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained): Brings a pop of sweetness and color.
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained): Adds tanginess and brightens the stew.
- 14 oz can Rotel (undrained): Gives it that classic Texan kick with mild heat.
- 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, peas, corn): Increases veggie variety and nutritional goodness.
- 2 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid that ties everything together gently as it cooks.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Balances the acidity and spices with a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers that unmistakable smoky aroma and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor effortlessly.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the stew.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat to awaken the palate.
- 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish): A bright, fresh finish to every bowl.
How to Make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned and crumbled, making sure no pink remains. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic right towards the end and sauté them for just a couple of minutes until fragrant. This step is essential for building the rich foundation of flavor that will infuse the whole stew.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the tasty beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Next, add all the remaining ingredients—kielbasa slices, potatoes, beans, corn, tomatoes, Rotel, mixed vegetables, beef broth, brown sugar, and spices. Once everything is nestled in, give it a gentle stir to combine, but don’t worry too much about mixing it perfectly; the slow cooking will do all the magic.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your crockpot, and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or on low for 6 to 8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and the vegetables have melded beautifully with the meats and spices. This slow simmer lets the flavors deepen with time, making your Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe a true showstopper at the dinner table.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the stew with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal note. Ladle it into bowls while it’s warm and inviting—this is the moment where your hearty stew really shines and brings everyone together.
How to Serve Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the classic go-to garnish for this stew, adding brightness and a bit of garden-fresh flair. If you want to get adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of shredded cheddar can add creaminess and tang that pairs oh-so-well with the smoky, spicy stew.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe stands strong on its own, but you can round out your meal with some crusty bread, buttery cornbread, or even a light side salad to break up the richness. Each side brings something special that complements the stew’s bold and hearty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the stew in hollowed-out bread bowls—it makes the dinner feel festive and rustic. You can also offer toppings like diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or crunchy tortilla strips so everyone can customize their bowl to their liking. These little touches make the meal interactive and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe tastes just as incredible the next day. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, often making reheated portions even better.
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully, which means you can make a big batch and save some for busy nights later on. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the stew gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of beef broth or water if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for a quick and cozy meal anytime.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa brings a distinctive smoky flavor, you can swap it for other smoked sausages like Andouille or chorizo depending on your preference. Just slice and add it as you would the kielbasa.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meats and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra beans, hearty vegetables, and perhaps some plant-based sausage for protein. Keep the seasoning strong to maintain that bold cowboy flavor.
Can I prepare this stew in advance and cook it later?
You can assemble all the ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight before cooking. Allow the stew to come to room temperature before starting the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
What is the best way to thicken the stew if it’s too watery?
If your stew needs thickening, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering stew. Cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Can I make this recipe in a regular pot on the stove?
Yes, just brown the meat and sauté the aromatics as instructed, then add everything to a large pot. Simmer gently on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with hearty, comforting flavors, and this Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe nails it every time. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this stew brings warmth, cheer, and a taste of Texas cowboy spirit right to your table. Give it a try—you’ll find it becoming your go-to recipe for an easy, satisfying feast.
Print
Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Texan American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew combining ground beef, kielbasa sausage, a variety of vegetables, and spices. Slow-cooked to perfection for tender, comforting stew ideal for family meals.
Ingredients
Meat and Sausage
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb package kielbasa sausage, sliced
Vegetables
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, peas, and corn)
Canned Goods
- 30 oz cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 15 oz can whole kernel corn, drained
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 14 oz can Rotel, undrained
Liquids and Broth
- 2 cups beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Garnish
- 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2 minutes to develop flavor, then remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add sliced kielbasa sausage, diced potatoes, rinsed pinto beans, drained whole kernel corn, undrained diced tomatoes, undrained Rotel, frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
- Slow Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours. The stew is ready when the vegetables are tender and all flavors are well blended.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the stew as a garnish. Serve the stew hot and enjoy this hearty cowboy-inspired meal with family and friends.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, you can brown the kielbasa slices briefly before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Adjust seasoning to taste during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- This stew freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Ensure your slow cooker is at least 6 quarts to accommodate all ingredients without overflowing.
