Tasty Cowboy Stew

Ranch Stew brings together all the bold tastes you'd want in a filling, country-style meal. This easy one-pot creation mixes crispy bacon bits, flavorful kielbasa rounds, and crumbled ground beef with chunky potatoes, beans, and sweet corn kernels. It all comes together in a tasty tomato and green chili mixture that gives just enough kick while the soft potatoes add a nice smoothness. It's the ultimate comfort food when it's cold outside or when you've got lots of hungry folks to feed.

INGREDIENTS

• Chopped parsley: 2 tbsp, sprinkled on top
• Water: 1 cup, for proper cooking
• Russet potatoes: 2 medium, cut into chunks after peeling
• Sweet corn: 1 (15 oz) can, liquid included
• Chopped green chilies: 1 (7 oz) can, juice and all
• Baked beans: 2 (16 oz) cans, don't drain
• Petite diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can, undrained
• Chili powder: 1 tsp, adds mild warmth
• Salt and pepper: 1.5 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
• All-purpose flour: 3 tbsp, makes it thicker
• Garlic: 3 cloves, finely chopped
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped small
• Ground beef: 1.5 lbs (80/20), broken up and browned
• Kielbasa sausage: 2 (12 oz) packages, cut and cooked until golden
• Bacon: 4 slices, diced and crisped

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 6:

Let it bubble up, turn down the heat, put a lid on, and cook gently for 1 hour, giving it a stir now and then.

Step 5:

Pour in the tomatoes, beans, chilies, corn, potato pieces, cooked bacon, browned sausage, and water. Mix everything together.

Step 4:

Toss in the flour, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Mix and let it cook for a minute.

Step 3:

Using the same pot, cook the ground beef with the onion and garlic until the meat isn't pink anymore.

Step 2:

Toss the kielbasa slices into the pot and brown them on each side, then take them out.

Step 1:

Cook your bacon pieces in a big pot over medium heat until crispy, then set them aside.

Serving and Storage Tips

• It keeps well in the fridge for about 4 days or you can freeze it for later.
• Try it with some crusty bread, cornbread, or even on top of rice to make it more filling.

Helpful Notes

• Try different beans like pinto or kidney beans for a change.
• If you want it spicier, just add some hot sauce or a bit of cayenne.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Pro Advice: Let your stew sit for about 10 minutes before you dish it up - it lets the flavors get even better.

Pairing Suggestions for Cowboy Stew

This hearty stew tastes great with warm buttery cornbread, some tangy pickled veggies, or a light crisp salad to balance out the richness.

Customizing Your Cowboy Stew

Throw in more veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or celery to pump up the nutrition and taste. Want it hotter? Toss in some jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Sure thing! Just brown your meats first, dump everything in the slow cooker, and let it go on low for 6-8 hours.

How can I thicken the stew?

You can mix some cornstarch with cold water and stir it in, or just cook it without the lid to let some liquid cook off.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh or frozen corn works just as well - just toss it right in the pot.

What other sausages work well?

Try andouille, regular smoked sausage, or spicy chorizo instead of kielbasa for a different twist.

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Conclusion

A cozy, all-in-one meal with sautéed bacon and kielbasa bringing a smoky touch, paired with beef, beans, and veggies like corn and potatoes. The mix of spices, tomatoes, and green chilies adds a warm kick. Prepare easily by browning meats and simmering with flavors that come together beautifully. A family-friendly dinner that’ll impress guests or work for future lunches. Serve with warm bread or cornbread on the side.