This Hearty Cowboy Stew is perfect for a cozy dinner! Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and colorful veggies, it warms you right up. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together in one pot!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that lets you enjoy what’s cooking while it gently bubbles away? It’s like a big hug in a bowl! I like to serve mine with crusty bread for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for stews because it becomes tender and flavorful with long cooking. If you prefer, you can use beef stew meat or even substitute with chicken for a lighter version.
Vegetable Oil: Any cooking oil works here, but I prefer olive oil for its flavor. If you want to keep it heart-healthy, use a light olive oil or avocado oil.
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their creaminess. You could also try Yukon Gold for a buttery texture, or skip the potatoes entirely for a lower-carb option and add more veggies like mushrooms or turnips.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add lots of flavors. If you have fresh tomatoes, feel free to chop them up and use those instead! You can also use crushed tomatoes for a thicker stew.
Broth: Beef broth enriches the stew, but vegetable broth or chicken broth can be good substitutes if you’re looking to change flavors a bit or if you have dietary restrictions.
How Do I Achieve Maximum Flavor in My Stew?
Building flavor in a stew starts with browning the beef. Don’t rush this step; take the time to get a nice brown crust. It adds depth to the dish. Here’s how you can enhance those flavors:
- Make sure the pot is hot before adding the oil and beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; brown the beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- After sautéing the onion and garlic, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits.
Finally, let it simmer slowly. A low, gentle cook helps meld all the flavors together beautifully! Adjust seasoning towards the end for the best results.
How to Make Hearty Cowboy Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Broth and Seasoning:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup frozen green beans
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hearty Cowboy Stew will take about 15 minutes to prep, and around 2 hours to cook. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours simmering for that tender beef and flavorful veggies, plus another 10-15 minutes to heat everything through at the end.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the beef cubes in a single layer. Let them brown for about 5-7 minutes on all sides. When browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. Don’t worry if it sticks a bit—that’s just more flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant. This will create a beautiful base for your stew!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Now, add in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Pour in the beef broth, then sprinkle in the thyme, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir.
4. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking will make the beef super tender and the flavors meld beautifully!
5. Add the Final Veggies:
After the first hour and a half, add the frozen corn and green beans to the pot. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to heat through and become tender.
6. Adjust and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if you like. This stew pairs perfectly with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping—enjoy!
Can I Use Different Meat in This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is traditional and adds great flavor, you can use beef stew meat or even chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will take less time to cook until tender.
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the corn and green beans during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender.
