Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a family gathering, or just a busy day when you need a warm meal waiting for you, this stew delivers. It combines hearty ingredients like ground beef and kielbasa sausage with flavorful spices, making it both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This stew is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Easy Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your Crockpot and let it do all the work!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The rich taste appeals to both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential items to help you create the perfect Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is where the magic happens. It allows for low-and-slow cooking that enhances flavors.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing its flavor.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew includes a mix of hearty ingredients that come together to create a comforting dish.

Meat

• 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)

Beans & Grains

• 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)

Broth & Seasonings

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onions and minced garlic; cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the beef and onion mixture to the bottom of a slow cooker that is at least 6 quarts in size. Then add all remaining ingredients—kielbasa sausage, potatoes, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel, frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook

Cover with the lid. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until all vegetables are soft and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew!

How to Serve Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• French Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly with the stew. Use it to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add flavor with garlic bread, which complements the hearty ingredients of the stew.

Over Rice

• White Rice: Serve the stew over fluffy white rice for a filling meal. The rice will absorb the flavors beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your dish.

Topped with Cheese

• Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for added creaminess. It melts into the hot stew, enhancing each bite.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a mild flavor and melts well, making every spoonful even more delightful.

As a Burrito Filling

• Flour Tortillas: Wrap the stew in flour tortillas for a fun twist. Add some salsa and avocado for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

To make your Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust spices according to your taste. You can add more smoked paprika or chili powder for extra kick.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables when possible; they enhance the flavor and texture of your stew.
• Layering flavors: Brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth and richness to your dish.
• Slow cooking time: For best results, cook on low for 8 hours. This allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Garnish wisely: Don’t forget the parsley garnish! It adds freshness and color that elevates presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors.

1. Cornbread: A sweet and buttery cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the savory stew.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens provide a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the stew.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, making it an ideal companion.
4. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with sour cream alongside your stew for an extra dose of comfort.
5. Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli enhances the overall flavors of your meal while providing nutrition.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add smokiness and color, making your plate visually appealing and nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the meat: Cooking the beef for too long can make it tough. Brown it just until cooked through before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Skipping the browning step: Neglecting to brown the ground beef and sausage can result in a less flavorful stew. Always brown your meat first for a deeper taste.
• Not draining canned ingredients: Failing to drain canned corn or beans can lead to excess liquid, making the stew watery. Always rinse and drain canned items as specified in the recipe.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting before serving can lead to blandness. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference after cooking.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor-quality beef broth can diminish flavor. Opt for a good-quality broth or homemade stock for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Leave space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer stew to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place stew in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover lightly and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour stew into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally while warming for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew without meat?

Yes! You can substitute meat with additional beans or lentils for a vegetarian version of Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew.

How spicy is Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

The spice level is moderate due to the Rotel tomatoes; however, you can adjust it by using mild diced tomatoes or omitting certain spices.

Can I use other vegetables in Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference.

How do I thicken my Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

If you prefer thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

Serve it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal that balances flavors well.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify ingredients based on what you have available or your dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a chilly night, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to make it your own!

Print

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

---

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 31 minute
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is the perfect dish for those seeking hearty comfort food with minimal effort. This savory stew combines ground beef and kielbasa sausage with an array of vegetables, beans, and spices, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Ideal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, you can toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you focus on other things. The result is a rich, delicious stew that warms the soul and pleases the entire family. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever veggies you have on hand, making it an easy go-to meal for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 lb kielbasa sausage (sliced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 large gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 10 oz frozen mixed vegetables
• 30 oz pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 15 oz whole kernel corn (drained)
• 15 oz diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 14 oz Rotel (undrained)
• 2 cups beef broth
• Seasonings: brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper

---

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Transfer the meat mixture to a slow cooker. Add sliced kielbasa sausage, diced potatoes, mixed vegetables, drained beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel, beef broth, and all seasonings.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
4. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until all vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: High for 3–4 hours / Low for 6–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 375
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added richness in flavor, consider browning the meat beforehand. Customize by using any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with water during the last hour of cooking.