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Cowboy Stew

Savory Cowboy Stew: Hearty Comfort in Every Bite

This Cowboy Stew combines bacon, kielbasa, and ground beef, offering hearty comfort on cool nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Meats
  • 8 oz Bacon Adds smokiness and depth of flavor; substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 14 oz Kielbasa Sausage Offers a distinct smokiness; try chorizo for a spicier kick.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) Provides a hearty protein base; lean beef can be used for a healthier version.
Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Enhances flavor with sweetness when caramelized; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferable but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 can Chopped Green Chilies Provides a kick; omit if sensitive to heat or substitute bell peppers for milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Sweet Corn Adds sweetness and texture; canned or frozen corn works well.
  • 2 medium Russet Potatoes Adds heartiness to the stew; can substitute with Yukon Gold for extra creaminess.
Base
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the stew; for gluten-free options, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes (canned) Adds acidity and moisture; fresh diced tomatoes can be used if preferred.
  • 1 can Baked Beans Introduces sweetness; ranch-style beans offer a more savory flavor.
  • 4 cups Water Adjust for desired stew consistency; beef broth can be added for depth of flavor.
Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on dietary preferences.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on dietary preferences.
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder Contributes warmth and spice; replace with paprika for a milder flavor.
Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Parsley Fresh garnish that adds color and brightness; green onions can be a substitute if parsley isn't available.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid burning. Once the bacon is golden brown, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, leaving the drippings in the pot for added flavor.
  2. In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the sliced kielbasa sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned and slightly crispy, stirring often to ensure even cooking. Once golden, remove the kielbasa and place it with the cooked bacon.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the beef until it’s no longer pink and the onions have turned translucent. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and chili powder, stirring for about 1 minute to combine.
  4. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, baked beans, chopped green chilies, sweet corn, diced russet potatoes, and about 4 cups of water into the pot. Stir everything together.
  5. Raise the heat to high until the stew reaches a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. After an hour, check the stew's consistency; if it’s too thick, add more water to reach your desired texture. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 22gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 7gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This stew is best enjoyed fresh but also reheats beautifully; just add a splash of water during reheating to restore creaminess.

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