This Hearty Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. Packed with tender beef, chunky potatoes, and tasty veggies, it’s a meal that warms you right up!
Making stew is so fun! I love how it fills my kitchen with delicious smells. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends and family while swapping stories around the table.
Plus, one pot means fewer dishes to wash, which is always a win in my book! Serve it with some crusty bread and you’ve got a cozy meal that’s super satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is great for stews because it becomes tender with cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use beef sirloin or stew meat instead.
Potatoes: I use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their flavor and texture. Sweet potatoes can make a nice twist if you prefer something sweeter.
Carrots and Celery: These classic veggies add great flavor. If you’re short on veggies, frozen mixed vegetables work well too!
Diced Tomatoes: They add acidity and flavor. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, about 4-5 medium ones, chopped, can be used instead.
Spices: Chili powder and smoked paprika give good depth. Feel free to adjust based on your heat preference—omit the chili powder for a milder stew.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Beef for Stew?
Browning the beef is key for flavor. It creates a crust that enhances the stew. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven to retain heat.
- Don’t overcrowd; brown in batches if necessary.
- Let the beef sear without moving it for about 3-4 minutes before flipping.
By taking the time to brown the beef, you will develop a richer flavor in your stew.
How to Make Hearty Cowboy Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 1.5 hours to cook, including both browning the meat and simmering everything together. In total, plan on about 1 hour and 50 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this comfort food masterpiece!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in a single layer. Brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. This step is crucial as it enhances the stew’s flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This helps to build a flavorful base for your stew.
3. Mixing in the Flavorings:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Then, stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the beef and get those spices cooking.
4. Building the Stew:
Pour in the beef broth, water, and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir everything to combine. Raise the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is nice and tender.
5. Adding the Vegetables:
After an hour, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, corn, and green beans to the pot. Give it a gentle stir and simmer for another 30 minutes, until all the vegetables are cooked through and tender.
6. Final Seasoning:
Once everything is cooked, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Hearty Cowboy Stew is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely pop of color. Enjoy it with some warm crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal!
FAQ About Hearty Cowboy Stew
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Chuck?
Yes, you can use ground beef, but keep in mind it will change the texture of the stew. Brown the ground beef first, then drain excess fat before following the remaining steps of the recipe.
How Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
This stew actually tastes better the next day! Make it ahead of time, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute in This Recipe?
You can easily customize the vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind that softer vegetables may need less cooking time, so add them later in the cooking process.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and then heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
