This hearty Texas Cowboy Stew combines beef, sausage, bacon, beans, and potatoes into a flavorful dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and warmed. Perfect for a family dinner or a cold day, this stew is packed with bold flavors and easy to make!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 package (14 ounces) skinless smoked sausage, sliced
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 1/2 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add Sausage and Bacon:

Add the sliced smoked sausage and crumbled cooked bacon to the pot. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the sausage is heated through.

3. Add Potatoes:

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine.

4. Add Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes:

Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with their juice).

5. Add Seasonings and Broth:

Add the beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

6. Simmer the Stew:

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well combined.

7. Optional – Add Cheese:

For a creamier texture, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving.

Serving:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef and sausage with plant-based alternatives or add extra beans and vegetables for a hearty vegetarian stew.
Different Beans: Swap out the kidney or black beans for pinto or cannellini beans for a different flavor.

Storage:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: This stew freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes, you can substitute the smoked sausage with chorizo, kielbasa, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! After browning the beef, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
A: Yes! You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even green beans for extra color and nutrition.

Conclusion:

Texas Cowboy Stew is a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or prepping in advance for easy weeknight dinners. With bold flavors and plenty of customization options, this stew is sure to become a family favorite!