Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
Introduction
This Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy days. Packed with ground beef, kielbasa, vegetables, and bold spices, it delivers warm comfort with minimal effort.

Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb package kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 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
- 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, peas, and corn)
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Step 2: Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the kielbasa slices, potatoes, pinto beans, corn, diced tomatoes, Rotel, frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Cover with the lid and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Step 4: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your comforting Texas Cowboy Stew!
Tips & Variations
- For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
- Swap out the kielbasa for smoked sausage or chorizo to vary the taste.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes before serving or add a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or celery to boost nutrition and color.
Storage
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This stew also freezes well; freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this stew on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer all the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and kielbasa and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. Add extra beans or lentils for protein, and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky depth.
PrintCrockpot Texas Cowboy Stew Recipe
A hearty and flavorful Crockpot Texas Cowboy Stew packed with ground beef, kielbasa sausage, potatoes, beans, corn, and a medley of vegetables. This easy slow cooker recipe combines smoky spices and comforting ingredients to create a satisfying stew perfect for chilly days or casual family dinners.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
- Total Time: 4-4.5 hours (high) or 6.5-8.5 hours (low)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Stew
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
Meat and Sausage
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb package kielbasa sausage, sliced
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 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
- 10 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, peas, and corn)
Liquids and Broth
- 2 cups beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture to the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Add the sliced kielbasa, diced potatoes, pinto beans, whole kernel corn, diced tomatoes, undrained Rotel, frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the flavors have melded together.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, stir the stew gently, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy your hearty Texas Cowboy Stew!
Notes
- For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Rotel.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Keywords: Texas Cowboy Stew, Crockpot stew, slow cooker recipe, beef stew, kielbasa stew, easy dinner, comfort food, hearty stew

