This Cowboy Stew is a warm and filling dish packed with juicy beef, tender veggies, and hearty beans. Perfect for a cozy meal, it warms your heart and tummy!
I love how easy it is to throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. Who doesn’t love a meal that works twice? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for stewing due to its marbling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using sirloin or even a mix of ground beef and steak. It cooks faster, too!
Vegetable Oil: While vegetable oil works well, I prefer using olive oil for added flavor. You can also use coconut oil or any other oil you like; just avoid strong-flavored oils like sesame.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans add protein and texture. If you’re looking to reduce carbs, you can use more veggies instead of beans. Or, try black beans or chickpeas for a different twist!
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give depth to this stew. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, or add a dash of liquid smoke for a similar flavor. Adjust the spices to your heat preference!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in a Stew?
Getting tender beef in your stew is all about cooking it slowly. Start by browning the beef to seal in the juices. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the oil in your pot and cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps sear it evenly.
- Use a low and slow approach! After browning, cover and let the stew simmer for at least an hour. If you have more time, three hours on low heat will make it even more tender.
- Add the vegetables after. This ensures they don’t overcook, but instead retain a nice bite to balance the tender beef.
With these tips, you’ll have a hearty stew that is both comforting and full of flavor! Enjoy!
Hearty Cowboy Stew Recipe for Cozy Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
For the Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty cowboy stew takes about 20 minutes to prepare, followed by a cooking time of around 1 hour and 40 minutes. In total, you’ll need about 2 hours to create a delicious, warm meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
First, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Once they are nicely browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened and fragrant. This step builds a fantastic base for your stew!
3. Mix in the Seasonings:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to well coat the beef and onions with those lovely spices.
4. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the beef broth along with the diced tomatoes (including their juices). Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef starts to get tender.
5. Incorporate the Vegetables:
After the hour is up, it’s time to add the rest of the veggies! Toss in the sliced carrots, celery, cubed potatoes, and diced bell pepper. Cover the pot again and let it simmer for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the Beans:
Stir in the drained kidney and pinto beans. Uncover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat through and thicken the stew a bit. It’s starting to smell amazing!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Feel free to add more salt or spices according to your preference!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice dash of color. Serve the cowboy stew hot, and enjoy it with crusty bread or over your favorite rice for a filling meal!
Enjoy your warm, comforting Hearty Cowboy Stew! Perfect for sharing with family and friends on cozy nights!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for stewing due to its tenderness, you can substitute it with other cuts like brisket, round steak, or even ground beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the cut!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cowboy Stew?
Leftover cowboy stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Follow the same steps for browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
What’s a Good Serving Suggestion for Cowboy Stew?
This stew is incredibly hearty on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side of cornbread for a complete meal. Feel free to top it off with sour cream or shredded cheese for an extra touch!
