Cowboy Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for feeding a crowd or warming up on a chilly day. Combining tender potatoes, savory meatloaf, and a rich tomato-based broth, this meal is as comforting as it is satisfying.
Cowboy Stew with Potatoes and Meatloaf
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground pork (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Stew:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen corn or peas (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and bake on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through. Let it cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized chunks.
- Make the Stew:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the stew cook, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Combine:
- Gently fold the meatloaf chunks into the stew.
- If using frozen corn or peas, stir them in and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
- This stew pairs well with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Enjoy your hearty Cowboy Stew! 🥔🍖