There’s nothing like the comforting aroma of Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew filling your home on a chilly day. This rich and filling stew combines tender ground beef, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables in a savory tomato-based broth that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

I first made this dish on a camping trip years ago, inspired by the simplicity and heartiness of cowboy-style cooking. Since then, it’s become a family favorite, with my kids calling it “the ultimate comfort food.” Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Get ready to fall in love with a stew that brings the best of comfort food to your table. Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew is more than just a meal – it’s a heartwarming experience.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the trusty crockpot. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, you can focus on your day while this stew develops its deep, rich flavors.

It’s also super versatile. You can customize the vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even switch up the protein to suit your preferences. It’s a recipe that works with what you have on hand.

And let’s not forget – this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a big family or hosting friends, this stew is always a hit. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for meal planning or stretching your grocery dollars.

Finally, leftovers are just as delicious (if not better) the next day. Store them in the fridge, and you’ve got an easy reheat-and-eat meal ready to go.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this stew lies in its simple, hearty ingredients. Each component works together to create a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Ground beef: The base of the stew. Opt for lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease, but don’t go too lean – a little fat adds richness to the flavor. Ground turkey or pork can also work well.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for this recipe because they hold their shape beautifully while absorbing all the savory goodness of the broth. If you prefer a creamier texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice.
Vegetables: This stew is packed with corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and kidney beans. Canned vegetables save time, but fresh options can add an extra layer of flavor if you have them.
Seasonings: A mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne gives the stew its smoky, slightly spicy kick. Adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste preferences.
Tomato base: Using canned tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with green chilies gives the broth a rich and tangy flavor with a hint of spice.
Special equipment: A large crockpot is essential for this recipe. If your crockpot is smaller, consider halving the ingredients or dividing the stew into two batches.

How to Make This Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew

Creating this delicious stew is as simple as setting up your crockpot and letting it do the work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make it:

Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Layer the ingredients: Add your diced potatoes, onions, corn, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the crockpot. Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the top.
Prepare the broth: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, beef broth, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
Stir and serve: About 15 minutes before serving, give the stew a good stir to distribute the flavors. Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.

Pro tip: If you like a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes right in the crockpot before serving.

Storage Options

This stew is perfect for meal prep, as it stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Freezer: To freeze, let the stew cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating tips: Warm the stew gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it’s too thick after reheating, stir in a bit of broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew is how flexible it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Switch up the protein: Try ground turkey, pork, or even cubed chuck roast for a twist on the classic version.
Add more veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans can add freshness and color to the stew.
Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add extra cayenne, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
Make it vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add more beans, lentils, or even plant-based crumbles for a hearty meatless option.
Experiment with grains: Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or barley in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a unique texture and flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is a great canvas for your favorite ingredients.

Conclusion

There you have it – a comforting, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re serving it to your family or a group of friends, Hearty Crockpot Cowboy Stew is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear about your variations!