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Bowl of homemade cowboy chili stew with beans and vegetables

Cowboy Chili Stew

A heartwarming and flavorful stew made with ground meat, beans, and fresh vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey Make sure it’s lean for a healthier option
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth Choose low-sodium for a healthier version
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups mixed bell peppers, diced Fresh or frozen
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
  • fresh cilantro, chopped
  • diced avocados
  • sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • shredded cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Cooking
  1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef or vegetable broth, chili powder, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, add the kidney beans, black beans, and mixed bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Allow the stew to simmer, uncovered, for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors should meld beautifully.
  4. When ready, check for seasoning; adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm in bowls, garnished with your choice of toppings.

Notes

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your stew. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot as it simmers. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Consider using ground plant-based meat for a vegetarian option!