Ret Soup
Introduction
This hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Texas Cowboy Stew is packed with ground beef, sausage, beans, and vegetables, making it the perfect comfort meal for any occasion. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a rich, smoky, and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
500g ground beef
200g smoked sausage, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
400g canned diced tomatoes
500ml beef broth
300g canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
300g canned black beans, drained and rinsed
250g frozen corn
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, cook the smoked sausage slices for a few minutes until slightly browned, then transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, pinto beans, black beans, frozen corn, potatoes, and bell pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir well before serving and enjoy with cornbread or fresh bread.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2
In the same skillet, cook the sliced smoked sausage for a few minutes until slightly browned, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
Step 3
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, drained and rinsed pinto beans, drained and rinsed black beans, frozen corn, diced potatoes, and chopped bell pepper to the slow cooker.
Step 4
Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 6
Stir well before serving and enjoy your Texas Cowboy Stew with cornbread or fresh bread.
Notes
Storage
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Variation
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on seasonality and personal preference. Adding zucchini or carrots can enhance the flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor.
Storage Instructions
Leftover Slow Cooker Texas Cowboy Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, place the stew in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion, and it can be kept for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Texas Cowboy Stew hot, paired with cornbread, crusty bread, or over rice for a heartier meal. For added flavor, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. A side salad can complement the stew well, adding freshness to the dish.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
– Calories: 400-450
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Dietary Fiber: 15g
– Sugars: 5g
– Fat: 15g
– Saturated Fat: 6g
*Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*
Ingredient Substitutions
– Ground Beef: Can be replaced with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
– Smoked Sausage: Substitute with turkey sausage or omit entirely for a vegetarian version.
– Canned Pinto Beans: Use kidney beans or chickpeas as alternatives.
– Canned Black Beans: Can be switched with any other variety of beans, such as brown beans.
– Frozen Corn: Fresh corn off the cob or canned corn can also work.
– Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or turnips can be used for a different flavor profile.
– Bell Pepper: Any color of bell pepper works; alternatively, zucchini or other vegetables can be added for variety.
Cook techniques
Searing Meat
Cooking the ground beef and smoked sausage in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker helps to develop a rich, savory flavor and enhances the overall taste of the stew.
Layering Ingredients
Add ingredients in layers starting with proteins and followed by vegetables and beans. This helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the stew.
Using Frozen Ingredients
Incorporating frozen corn allows for convenience and ensures that the stew has a fresh taste without the need for additional prep work.
Slow Cooking
Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while cooking on high for 3-4 hours is perfect for quicker meal preparation without sacrificing taste.
Seasoning Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin to suit your personal spice preference for a kick or milder flavor.
Stirring Before Serving
Stirring the stew before serving helps to combine all the ingredients and ensures that every bowl is evenly flavored.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or any sausage of your choice for different flavors and textures.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based crumbles or omit the meat entirely and add more beans and vegetables to make it vegetarian.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add any additional vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or green beans to the stew according to your preference.
What should I serve with Texas Cowboy Stew?
Cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple side salad complements the stew perfectly.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can modify the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika to make the stew milder or spicier according to your taste.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Texas Cowboy Stew is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, this stew not only satisfies but also brings a taste of the South right to your table. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to enjoy your time while preparing a meal that the whole family will love.
Spicy Chili Verde
For a twist on traditional chili, try making a Spicy Chili Verde. Use pork shoulder, tomatillos, and green chilies for a zesty alternative with a burst of flavor.
Vegetarian Bean Chili
Combine various beans, bell peppers, and corn for a hearty vegetarian option. Spice it up with taco seasoning and serve with avocado and tortilla chips.
Beef and Vegetable Soup
Switch the focus to an array of vegetables by incorporating carrots, zucchini, and green beans along with beef chunks for a lighter yet equally comforting soup.
BBQ Pulled Pork Stew
Use pulled pork and barbecue sauce, along with beans and potatoes, for a deliciously smoky and tangy stew that’s perfect for any gathering.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Stew
Replace the beef with boneless chicken thighs and add arborio rice for a creamy variation. Enhance the flavors with herbs like thyme and rosemary.
