Hearty Cowboy Stew with Bacon

This hearty, smoky cowboy stew brings together the best elements of beef stew and chili in one magnificent pot. Loaded with three types of meat and packed with satisfying vegetables, it's become my go-to recipe when feeding a hungry crowd or stocking the freezer with comforting meals.

I first made this during a particularly harsh winter when my family was craving something substantial that would warm us from the inside out. The combination of smoky bacon, savory kielbasa, and hearty ground beef turned this from a simple stew into what has become our most requested cold-weather meal.

Ingredients

• Bacon: Offers a smoky foundation for the entire stew and its fat creates the perfect cooking medium for other ingredients
• Kielbasa: Brings a distinctive smoky flavor and satisfying bite that elevates this stew beyond ordinary recipes
• Ground beef: Provides hearty texture and rich flavor; look for 80/20 blend for optimal fat content
• Yellow onion and garlic: Create an aromatic base that permeates the entire dish
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the stew to the perfect consistency
• Chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper: Create the perfect balance of warmth and depth
• Chicken broth: Forms the savory liquid base; choose low-sodium to control salt levels
• Ranch-style beans or chili beans: With their liquid, add body and a complex flavor profile
• Sweet corn: Contributes pops of sweetness that balance the savory elements
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies: Add brightness and a gentle heat
• Russet potatoes: Absorb flavors while adding heartiness and substance
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bacon Foundation:

Cook chopped bacon over medium heat until perfectly golden and crisp, about 5 to 7 minutes. This creates a flavor foundation for the entire stew. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, preserving all those wonderful drippings in the pot.

Kielbasa Magic:

Add sliced kielbasa to the bacon drippings and cook until lightly browned and aromatic, about 3 to 5 minutes. The sausage absorbs the bacon flavor while releasing its own savory essence into the fat. Remove to the plate with the bacon and drain off all but 1 tablespoon of fat, which will be enough to cook the next ingredients.

Meat and Aromatics:

Add ground beef, onion, and garlic to the reserved drippings and cook, stirring frequently and breaking up the meat thoroughly with a wooden spoon. Continue until everything is lightly browned, which takes approximately 5 to 7 minutes. The meat should be cooked through with no pink remaining, while the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Spice and Thickener:

Sprinkle in the flour, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring continuously to coat the meat mixture evenly. Cook until the flour loses its raw scent and smells pleasantly toasty, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step prevents any floury taste in the finished stew and builds flavor by lightly toasting the spices.

Building the Stew:

Stir in the chicken broth, beans with their liquid, corn, tomatoes with green chilies including their liquid, and cubed potatoes. Bring everything to a gentle boil, which activates the thickening power of the flour. Return the reserved bacon and kielbasa to the pot, incorporating all those flavors back into the stew.

Slow Simmer:

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and allow the stew to simmer until the potatoes become fork-tender and all the flavors meld together beautifully, about 1 hour. This slow cooking process is crucial for developing depth of flavor and achieving the perfect texture. Check occasionally to ensure it's not sticking to the bottom.

Finishing Touch:

Ladle the finished stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. The bright green color and fresh flavor balance the richness of the stew. Allow diners to add additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.

The ranch-style beans are my secret favorite ingredient in this stew. My grandfather always insisted on using them in his cowboy cooking, claiming their seasoned sauce was what separated authentic ranch cooking from imitations. Every time I open a can, the distinctive aroma takes me right back to his kitchen where I first learned to appreciate hearty, satisfying food that sticks to your ribs.

Storage Solutions

This cowboy stew is even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen and meld overnight. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers after cooling completely. This approach allows you to thaw only what you need for quick meals. The stew will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick, as the potatoes tend to absorb liquid during storage.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. If kielbasa is unavailable, smoked sausage or even sliced hot dogs work well in a pinch. Turkey bacon can replace pork bacon for a lighter option, though you may need to add a tablespoon of oil to compensate for the reduced fat. Sweet potatoes offer a nutritious alternative to russet potatoes and add a subtle sweetness. For a spicier version, increase the amount of diced green chilies or add a dash of hot sauce. Vegetable broth can substitute for chicken broth without sacrificing flavor if cooking for someone who avoids poultry products.

Serving Suggestions

Skillet cornbread makes the perfect accompaniment to cowboy stew, ideal for sopping up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. For casual gatherings, set up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and extra bacon bits so guests can customize their bowls. This stew also pairs wonderfully with warm flour tortillas or crusty sourdough bread. For an authentic ranch experience, serve it alongside pickled jalapeños and a selection of hot sauces.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes cowboy stew special?

Cowboy stew combines the heartiness of beef stew with chili flavors, using three types of meat and plenty of vegetables for a satisfying dish.

→ Can I substitute ranch-style beans?

Yes, you can use any chili beans as a substitute. Keep the liquid for added flavor.

→ How long does cowboy stew stay fresh?

Cowboy stew stays fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.

→ What is the best way to freeze it?

Cool the stew before portioning it into airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of water.

→ What should I serve with cowboy stew?

Cowboy stew pairs perfectly with warm skillet cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the savory broth.