Description
This hearty Cowboy Stew combines smoky bacon, savory kielbasa sausage, ground beef, and a medley of vegetables and beans simmered to perfection in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this stew is packed with protein and bold flavors, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 (12-ounce) packages kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef, 80/20
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 2 (16-ounce) cans baked beans or ranch beans, 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
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
Seasonings and Other
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it is browned and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Brown Sausage: Using the drippings left in the pot from the bacon, brown the kielbasa sausage slices on both sides until they develop a nice sear. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Cook Beef: In the same pot, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and chili powder over the beef mixture. Stir and cook for an additional 1 minute to incorporate the flour and spices.
- Add Ingredients: Add the petite diced tomatoes, baked beans, chopped green chilies, sweet corn, cubed potatoes, cooked bacon, browned sausage, and 1 cup of water to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the stew for freshness and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier stew, add additional chili powder or some cayenne pepper.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, reduce the amount of water or simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes.
- This stew can be made a day ahead; flavors will deepen when reheated.
- Use low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes to control the salt content.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
