Cowboy stew is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for a family meal. It’s packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth. This one-pot wonder is easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Just imagine a bowl of this comforting stew, filled with flavors that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Cowboy Stew
This cowboy stew is straightforward to make and incredibly satisfying. With everyday ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a great dish for beginners. You can easily adjust the flavors to please your family’s tastes. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.
How to Make Cowboy Stew
Making this stew is as easy as one, two, three! You begin by sautéing the onions and garlic, then add the beef to brown. Finally, you stir in the rest of the ingredients and let it simmer until everything is tender and delicious. It’s a simple process that guarantees a cozy meal for your family.
What You Need
1 pound beef chuck, cut into chunks
4 cups beef broth
2 cups potatoes, diced
2 cups carrots, sliced
1 can (15 oz) beans (e.g., kidney beans, black beans), drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
Step-by-Step
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until they are translucent.
- Add beef chunks and brown them on all sides.
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, beans, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
How to Serve Cowboy Stew
This hearty stew is delicious on its own, but you can make it even better with some fresh crusty bread or over a bed of rice. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of sour cream could add a delightful touch. It’s great for family dinners, chilly evenings, or casual gatherings with friends.
How to Store Cowboy Stew
To keep leftovers fresh, store the cowboy stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot!
Recipe Tips
- Cut the beef into uniform chunks for even cooking.
- Feel free to use different beans or veggies you have on hand.
- Keep an eye on the stew while it simmers; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.
- If the stew is too thick, add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap out the beef for chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter taste.
- Add some corn for sweetness and crunch, making it more kid-friendly.
FAQs
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cowboy stew a day in advance. It actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have melded together even more. Just reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.
How do I freeze cowboy stew?
To freeze, let the stew cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top, as the stew will expand when frozen. It will stay fresh for up to three months.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
You can reheat cowboy stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat it in short intervals, stirring in between until hot all the way through.
What can I serve alongside it?
This stew pairs well with crusty bread or a green salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with cornbread for a comforting side!
Are there any common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is not browning the meat properly. This step adds depth to the flavor. Additionally, be sure to let it simmer long enough for the beef to become tender.
Cowboy Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound beef chuck, cut into chunks
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) beans (e.g., kidney beans, black beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until they are translucent.
- Add beef chunks and brown them on all sides.
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, beans, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
