This cowboy stew is one part beef stew, one part chili, and five parts pure deliciousness! With three types of meat and wholesome veggies, it’s a one-pot meal that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
If you’re new to cowboy stew, here’s a quick tip: you can make it two ways — with BBQ baked beans or with Ranch beans. Each choice gives the stew a distinct flavor:
- BBQ baked beans add a sweet, nostalgic touch—just like the version many Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops loved.
- Ranch beans keep it savory and traditional, perfect if you want to try cowboy stew for the first time.
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Stew
- Loaded with three types of tender meat for rich, layered flavor
- Packed with fresh veggies for a hearty, wholesome meal
- A one-pot wonder that means easy cleanup
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bacon (for smoky crispiness)
- Kielbasa sausage (adds smoky depth)
- Ground beef (the hearty base)
- Onion & garlic (aromatic flavor)
- Flour, salt, pepper & chili powder (for seasoning)
- Petite diced tomatoes (canned, with liquid)
- Baked beans or Ranch beans (with liquid)
- Chopped green chilies
- Sweet corn (look for true sweet corn, not corn canned with added sugar)
- Russet potatoes (cubed)
- Water
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Brown the kielbasa slices in the bacon drippings until golden. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
- Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic in the pot. Sprinkle flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder; stir and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, beans, green chilies, corn, potatoes, bacon, kielbasa, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Add extra water if the stew gets too thick.
Crockpot Instructions
- Brown bacon, kielbasa, and beef/onion/garlic mixture in a pot as above.
- Transfer all meats to a crockpot.
- Add tomatoes, beans, chilies, corn, potatoes, and water.
- Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until potatoes are tender.
Tips for Storing, Freezing & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It may thicken—thin with water when reheating.
- Freeze without potatoes (they can get mushy). Freeze for up to 3 months. Add canned or fresh potatoes when reheating.
- Prep ahead: Chop onions, garlic, potatoes, and kielbasa up to a week in advance and store separately.
Serving Suggestions
This cowboy stew pairs perfectly with your favorite sides:
- Southern cornbread, Bisquick biscuits, beer bread, or buttery crescent rolls
- Crunchy salads like coleslaw, carrot salad, or broccoli salad for some fresh contrast
Love Hearty Stews? Try These Next!
- Classic Beef Stew
- Pork Stew (a site favorite!)
- Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Chicken Stew
Final Thoughts
This cowboy stew is more than just a meal — it’s a crowd-pleaser packed with bold flavors, rich meats, and hearty veggies. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, it’s a delicious dinner solution that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe to get new, tasty recipes delivered right to your inbox every week!