There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of cowboy stew to warm you up after a long day. This hearty, flavor-packed dish is loaded with tender beef, smoky sausage, potatoes, and beans, all simmered together in a rich tomato-based broth.
I first discovered this recipe on a chilly camping trip when a friend threw together whatever ingredients we had on hand. The result? A thick, satisfying stew that instantly became a family favorite. Now, I make it in the crockpot for an easy, hands-off dinner that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas.
Why You'll Love This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort meal. This Crockpot Cowboy Stew is not just delicious—it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights and cold-weather cravings.
First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. No need to babysit a pot on the stove—just let time do the work for you.
It’s also budget-friendly. This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, canned beans, and potatoes, making it a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Plus, it’s packed with bold, smoky flavors. The combination of seasoned meat, hearty veggies, and a touch of spice creates a stew that’s both comforting and exciting with every bite.
Best of all, this stew is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or fridge, making it perfect for using up leftovers.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cowboy Stew comes from its hearty, rustic ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ground Beef & Smoked Sausage – The combination of juicy ground beef and smoky kielbasa or andouille sausage gives this stew a deep, savory flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or chorizo for a twist.
Potatoes – Russet potatoes hold up beautifully in the slow cooker, becoming tender without turning mushy. If you prefer a firmer texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative.
Beans – A mix of pinto beans and black beans adds protein and heartiness. You can also use kidney beans, white beans, or whatever you have on hand.
Tomatoes & Broth – A combination of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth creates a rich, flavorful base for the stew. Fire-roasted tomatoes add an extra layer of smoky depth.
Corn & Bell Peppers – These veggies provide a little sweetness and crunch, balancing the bold, savory flavors of the stew. Frozen or canned corn works just as well as fresh.
Spices – A blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin gives this stew its signature warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference.
You'll also need a large slow cooker (at least 6 quarts) to fit all the ingredients comfortably.
How To Make This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Making this Cowboy Stew couldn’t be easier. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, slow-cooked meal ready to enjoy.
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to your crockpot.
Next, slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds and add them to the slow cooker. This will allow the smoky flavors to blend into the stew as it simmers.
Chop the potatoes, onions, and bell peppers into even pieces and add them to the crockpot. Keeping the pieces uniform ensures even cooking and the perfect texture.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in the drained beans, corn, and seasonings, making sure everything is well combined.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, comforting stew.
Before serving, give the stew a good stir and check for seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste, and if you like a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor even more.
Storage Options
This Cowboy Stew stores beautifully, making it a great meal-prep option for busy weeks.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better with time!
For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, warm the stew in a saucepan over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Cowboy Stew is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious ways to change it up:
Make it spicy – Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Chorizo sausage is another great way to bring heat.
Swap the protein – Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even leftover brisket for a different twist.
Add more veggies – Stir in zucchini, carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition without changing the flavor too much.
Go dairy-free – This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you like a creamy touch, you can stir in coconut milk or dairy-free sour cream for a different texture.
Make it vegetarian – Skip the meat and double up on the beans. Adding lentils or chickpeas can help make the stew just as hearty.
No matter how you customize it, this Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew is sure to be a hit. Experiment with different ingredients and make it your own!
Now, grab a bowl, top it with some shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this cowboy classic.
PrintHearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew Recipe
This Crockpot Cowboy Stew is a rich and hearty meal loaded with tender beef, beans, potatoes, and veggies. Slowly simmered to perfection, this dish is packed with bold flavors, making it a comforting and satisfying dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 3 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to the crockpot. Add sliced smoked sausage, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, corn, onion, and garlic.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir in salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, and cumin.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir well before serving and enjoy!
Notes
- Use turkey sausage or ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add extra spices for a bolder flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
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