Texas Cowboy Beef Stew

This Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings when you want something filling and packed with bold flavors. It combines smoky sausage, tender ground beef, and a colorful mix of vegetables and beans for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

I first made this stew on a cold winter night when I wanted something easy but flavorful. It quickly became a family favorite with my kids asking for it again and again on rainy days.

Ingredients

• Beef smoked sausage: cut into slices — adds smoky richness and a bit of chew & choose your favorite brand with good meat quality
• Lean ground beef: provides hearty protein and a meaty base & go for 90 percent lean for balance between flavor and fat
• Diced yellow onion: builds a sweet and savory foundation & yellow onions have great balance for cooking
• Minced garlic: boosts aroma and depth of flavor & fresh cloves work best for punchiness
• Diced russet potato in one-inch pieces: thickens the stew naturally and adds comforting texture & select firm potatoes without sprouts
• Beef broth: gives a savory liquid base and enhances meaty notes & homemade or low sodium versions are best for control
• Frozen sweet yellow corn: adds subtle sweetness and color & no need to thaw before adding
• Frozen peas and carrots medley: brings brightness and nutrition & quick to cook straight from frozen
• Pinto beans with liquids: heartiness and creaminess plus fiber & canned pinto beans save time but drain if preferred
• Stewed tomatoes: provide acidity and a tomatoey body & choose good quality canned tomatoes for best taste
• Original Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies: introduces a mild kick and vibrant flavor & perfect for a Tex-Mex twist
• Chili powder: warms and flavors the stew with earthy notes & fresh chili powder packs the biggest punch
• Ground cumin: adds a smoky, nutty undertone that's classic in Texan dishes
• Smoked paprika: sparks subtle smokiness, choose Spanish variety if possible
• Salt: essential seasoning to bring out all flavors evenly
• Black pepper: adds mild heat and complexity

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage pieces:

Add the sliced smoked sausage to a large stock pot over medium high heat. Cook them for about five to six minutes or until the edges crisp and the fat renders out. This step releases flavor and fat that will enrich the stew later. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess fat and keep aside.

Brown the Ground Beef and Cook Aromatics:

In the same pot, add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onion, and minced garlic. Cook on medium high for five to six minutes until the beef loses all pink color and the onions soften and become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and break up the meat into crumbles. Drain any excess fat from the pot before moving to the next step.

Combine Ingredients in the Pot:

Return the cooked sausage to the pot with the browned ground beef. Add the diced russet potatoes, beef broth, frozen sweet corn, frozen peas and carrots, pinto beans including their liquid, stewed tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so that all flavors blend evenly.

Simmer Low and Slow:

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for one hour or until the potatoes are fork tender and all flavors have married beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check seasoning before serving.

Texas Cowboy Stew is one of those dishes where the smoked sausage really steals the show. I remember making a big batch for a weekend family gathering and everyone kept going back for seconds. It’s the kind of stew that brings people together and fills the kitchen with warmth.

Storage Tips

Let the stew cool to room temperature before storing in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. This stew also freezes really well. Portion it into meal-sized containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a milder flavor, swap smoked sausage with kielbasa or a good quality smoked turkey sausage. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to skip potatoes, add extra beans or diced squash for texture. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist and add extra beans and corn.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Texas Cowboy Stew with crusty bread or warm cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. A dollop of sour cream or shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top adds a creamy contrast. This stew pairs well with a simple green salad or a side of pickled jalapeños for a tangy kick.

This stew is a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect to make ahead and enjoy on cozy nights. Enjoy the bold, layered flavors with every comforting spoonful.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of sausage works best in this stew?

Smoked beef sausage like Hillshire Farms adds a rich, smoky flavor and holds up well during cooking.

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn, peas, and carrots can be substituted but may require slight adjustment in cooking time.

→ How do the spices affect the stew’s flavor?

Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika provide a bold, smoky warmth that defines the Texas-inspired profile.

→ Is it necessary to brown the meats before simmering?

Yes, browning the sausage and ground beef enhances flavor and texture by caramelizing natural juices.

→ What’s the best way to thicken the stew if it seems too thin?

Simmer uncovered to reduce liquid or mash some cooked potatoes to naturally thicken the consistency.