Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. This hearty stew combines savory flavors and tender meats, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its unique blend of ingredients creates a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot recipe that requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This stew is incredibly easy to make. Just toss all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, spices, and vegetables creates a robust flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it on its own, with crusty bread, or over rice for a complete meal any night of the week.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans, vegetables, and lean meat, this stew is nourishing and filling without being overly heavy.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew effectively, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows for slow cooking which enhances flavors and ensures tenderness.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker; this step adds depth to the flavor.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for balanced flavors in your stew.

this recipe

Ingredients

Protein

• 1.5 lbs ground beef

Vegetables

• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 large gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, peas, and corn)

Canned Goods

• 30 oz cans pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 14 oz can Rotel (undrained)

Broth & Seasonings

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Garnish

• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook and crumble the ground beef until browned.
2. Add the diced onions and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat once cooked through.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the beef mixture into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Stew

1. Cover with a lid.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
2. Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew while warm!

How to Serve Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a filling dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Pair your stew with slices of crusty baguette for dipping.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Top with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy texture.
• Queso Fresco: Crumble queso fresco for a mild, fresh flavor that balances the stew’s spices.

Add Fresh Garnishes

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and tang to each bowl.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy contrast and enhance the visual appeal.

How to Perfect Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Creating the perfect Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is easy with a few handy tips. Follow these guidelines to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, so choose the best quality produce you can find.
• Brown the Meat First: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker deepens the flavor of your stew.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your stew periodically during cooking, and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.
• Thicken if Desired: For a thicker stew, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your stew to sit for 15-30 minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

Pairing side dishes with Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew can elevate your meal. Here are some complementary options:

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor pairs well with the hearty stew.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the stew.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer additional textures and flavors alongside your main dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf makes for a great base to soak up all that delicious broth.
5. Potato Salad: A cold potato salad provides a contrast in temperature and texture while echoing the potato in your stew.
6. Coleslaw: Crisp coleslaw gives a refreshing crunch that complements the warmth of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef first can lead to a less flavorful stew. Always cook and crumble the beef until browned before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Adding too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off the balance of flavors. Use proper measuring tools for accuracy.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Filling your crockpot beyond its capacity can prevent even cooking. Make sure not to exceed your slow cooker’s recommended maximum fill line.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking on high for too long or low for too short can affect texture. Stick to the recommended cook times for best results.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like parsley add freshness and color but are often overlooked. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some herbs before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty dish made with ground beef, beans, potatoes, and vegetables, all simmered together in a slow cooker.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors while keeping the dish equally delicious.

How can I customize Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preferences. You can also adjust spices for more heat!

What sides pair well with this stew?

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a satisfying dish that warms you up during colder months. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that your whole family will love!

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Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef with a medley of colorful vegetables and flavorful spices, all simmered together in a slow cooker for a deliciously rich experience. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, this stew not only comforts but also nourishes with healthy ingredients like beans, potatoes, and mixed vegetables. With minimal preparation and effort, you can enjoy more quality time with your loved ones while savoring every bite of this filling one-pot meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 large gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables
• 30 oz pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add diced onions and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add diced potatoes, frozen vegetables, pinto beans, broth, and seasonings.
3. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until the vegetables are soft.
4. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding bell peppers or zucchini to the stew. Adjust spices to your preference for a kick of heat! To thicken the stew, mix cornstarch with water during the last hour of cooking.