This Hearty Cowboy Stew is a warm bowl of comfort perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with tender beef, fresh veggies, and hearty potatoes, it’s like a big hug in a bowl!
This stew is easy to make, and I love how it fills the whole house with yummy smells. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a cozy dinner night! 🥘❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews as it becomes tender when cooked slowly. If you need a lighter option, try using chicken thighs or even a plant-based substitute like lentils or beans for a vegetarian version!
Vegetable Oil: I prefer vegetable oil for browning the meat, but you can use olive oil or canola oil instead. If you’re looking for deeper flavor, bacon grease can also be an interesting choice.
Beans: Pinto beans add heartiness to the stew. If you prefer a different taste, black beans or kidney beans work well as alternatives. You can also skip them for a lighter dish.
Veggies: Carrots, potatoes, and celery are common, but feel free to mix in your favorites! Sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even peas can add unique flavors and textures.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Tender?
Getting tender beef in your stew is all about the browning and simmering process. Browning first adds flavor, while slow cooking turns tough cuts into something melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Here’s a quick guide:
- Brown the beef in small batches so you don’t steam them. This way, you get that nice sear!
- After adding broth and tomatoes, let it boil briefly before lowering the heat.
- Keep it covered while it simmers for the best results, simmer for at least an hour for that tender perfection.
Trust me, the more patience you have with this step, the better your stew will taste!
Hearty Cowboy Stew Recipe for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For The Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup canned or cooked pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hearty Cowboy Stew takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 1 hour and 30 minutes to cook. You will spend a little time browning the meat and chopping the veggies, but don’t worry; it’s super easy and worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Beef:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches—this helps them brown nicely. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re browned all over, then remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until your kitchen smells amazing!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juice included). Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for some heat.
4. Simmer the Stew:
Add the bay leaves and bring the stew to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover it. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
5. Add the Veggies:
After an hour, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and sliced celery to the pot. Give it a good stir and continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender.
6. Finish It Off:
Stir in the frozen corn and pinto beans, letting them heat through for another 5-10 minutes. Once they’re warmed up, remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your warm, filling Hearty Cowboy Stew on a cozy night!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef chuck with other meats! Chicken thighs work well for a lighter option, or for a vegetarian alternative, try using lentils or chickpeas to keep the stew hearty and filling.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your Hearty Cowboy Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing!
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors are well-blended.
What Can I Serve with Cowboy Stew?
This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or over a bed of rice for a complete meal!
