here's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of cowboy stew to warm you up after a long day. This hearty, flavor-packed dish is loaded with tender beef, smoky sausage, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly camping trip, where a friend tossed a mix of ingredients into a Dutch oven over the fire. The result? A stick-to-your-ribs meal that kept us full and satisfied. Now, I make it in the crockpot for an effortless, slow-cooked version that's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Get ready to fall in love with this comforting, one-pot meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.

First, it's incredibly simple to make. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. No complicated steps or hours of babysitting required!

This stew is also super filling. Packed with protein-rich beef and sausage, plus plenty of veggies and potatoes, it’s a complete meal in every spoonful.

Not to mention, it's budget-friendly. Using affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe stretches to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

And the best part? It tastes even better the next day! The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers an absolute treat.

Ingredients Notes

This crockpot cowboy stew is all about bold flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef – The heart of this stew! I recommend using 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Smoked sausage – Adds a delicious, smoky richness. You can use kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite variety.
Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold work best, as they hold up well during slow cooking.
Canned diced tomatoes – These add a natural sweetness and help create a flavorful broth.
Tomato sauce & beef broth – The key to a rich, savory base.
Frozen mixed vegetables – A convenient way to add color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.
Beans – I love using pinto or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
Seasonings – Garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin give this stew its signature Western-style flavor.

Special Equipment: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, giving all the ingredients enough room to cook evenly.

How to Make Crockpot Cowboy Stew

This crockpot cowboy stew is as easy as browning, dumping, and slow cooking! Here’s how to make it:

Brown the meat – In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease, then transfer to the slow cooker. Slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces and add it to the crockpot.
Add the veggies and potatoes – Chop the potatoes into chunks and toss them in. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
Season generously – Stir in the garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish.
Set and forget – Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the beans & frozen veggies – About 30 minutes before serving, add the drained beans and frozen vegetables. This ensures they stay vibrant and don’t overcook.
Taste and adjust – Give the stew a final taste and add more salt, pepper, or spice as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and enjoy!

Storage Options

This stew is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store leftovers:

Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better over time!
Freezer – Let the stew cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months.
Reheating – Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about cowboy stew is how versatile it is! Here are a few ways to customize it:

Make it spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
Swap the meat – Use ground turkey, pork, or even shredded chicken instead of beef.
Try different beans – Black beans, navy beans, or chickpeas all work well.
Go veggie-friendly – Skip the meat and double up on beans and veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
Add corn – A cup of frozen or canned corn gives the stew a touch of sweetness.

No matter how you make it, this crockpot cowboy stew is bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that tastes like it’s been simmering over an open fire.

Enjoy and happy cooking! 🤠🍲