Cowboy Stew Recipe

Cowboy Stew Recipe
Cowboy Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting meal. This stew combines beef, sausage, beans, and vegetables for a rich and satisfying meal. Here’s a classic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro
Instructions:
Cook the Meats:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown slightly.
Sauté Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Remaining Ingredients:

Add the pinto beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot.
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer the Stew:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve:

Ladle the stew into bowls and add your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Tips:
Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes to the stew for added flavor and nutrition.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by using a mild, medium, or hot version of Rotel tomatoes, or add some chopped jalapeños for extra spice.
Make Ahead: Cowboy stew tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.