Easy Crockpot Cowboy Stew Recipe

This easy crockpot cowboy stew recipe is the perfect blend of hearty ingredients and simple cooking techniques. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for family or looking for a convenient meal prep option, this dish fits the bill. Packed with savory meats, vibrant vegetables, and zesty flavors, this stew is sure to become a household favorite.

When I was growing up, my grandmother would often prepare a version of this stew for Sunday lunch. The aroma that filled the house as it cooked low and slow in the crockpot was an invitation we couldn’t refuse. Those family meals were cherished moments, and now, whenever I make this dish, it brings back so many fond memories of laughter and conversation around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to fit your family’s tastes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights since you can set it in the crockpot and forget about it. The combination of flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting stew that is both filling and nutritious. Plus, it makes great leftovers!

Ingredients Notes

This recipe calls for staple ingredients you may already have in your pantry. You can easily find the fresh produce at your local grocery store.

• Meat: Ground beef is traditional, but you can mix it with ground turkey for a healthier twist.
• Vegetables: Go for mixed bell peppers and corn for a pop of color. Frozen veggies work well, too.
• Beans: Canned pinto beans are preferable for convenience. You can substitute with kidney beans if desired.
• Spices: Adjust the spice level to your preference with more or less chili powder.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, and transfer the meat to the crockpot.

Step 2

Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the crockpot, stirring to combine with the beef.

Step 3

Mix in the pinto beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well to blend all ingredients.

Step 4

Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir everything together to ensure spices are evenly distributed.

Step 5

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-8 hours. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld. Serve hot!

Storage Options

Allow the stew to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to do so slowly over low heat on the stovetop, or using the defrost feature on your microwave.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles. Add more vegetables like zucchini for extra nutrition. If you’re looking for a flavor twist, try adding smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to bring in some heat.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or as a hearty addition to your game day spread. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the savory juices. It’s a dish that pairs well with crisp green salads or a side of cornbread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This stew actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. You can prepare it and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly. You can substitute the ground beef with other options like ground turkey, chicken, or even sausages for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the meat is thoroughly cooked before combining it with the other ingredients.

How do I adjust the thickness of the stew?
If you find the stew too thick, you can add a bit of broth or water as it cooks to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer with the lid slightly ajar to help it reduce.

Easy Crockpot Cowboy Stew Recipe

This hearty and flavorful cowboy stew is made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for a comforting dinner for the whole family.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours hours

Total Time: 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lb ground beef Lean or regular
• ▢ 15 oz canned pinto beans Drained and rinsed
• ▢ 15 oz canned diced tomatoes Undrained
• ▢ 8 oz canned sweet corn Drained
• ▢ 1 cup beef broth Low sodium
• ▢ 1 medium onion Chopped
• ▢ 1 tbsp chili powder
• ▢ 1 tsp salt Or to taste
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic Minced
• ▢ 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ▢ 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
• Add pinto beans, diced tomatoes, sweet corn, onion, beef broth, chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker.
• Stir to combine all ingredients.
• Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.
• Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

You can add diced potatoes or carrots for extra heartiness.