Cowboy Stew with Potatoes and Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of a classic meatloaf with the heartiness of a stew. This dish is a perfect one-pot meal that’s packed with bold flavors and satisfying ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a hearty and filling meal. The combination of tender potatoes, savory meatloaf, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly tasty.
Cowboy Stew is all about robust flavors and hearty ingredients that stick to your ribs. The meatloaf brings a classic, nostalgic flavor to the dish, while the potatoes add substance and comfort. The stew itself is simmered in a rich tomato-based broth, flavored with onions, garlic, and a touch of spice, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, as it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- For the Stew:
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare the Meatloaf:
- Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meatloaf is cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Stew:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes and Tomatoes:
- Add the chunked potatoes to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato sauce. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together.
- Simmer the Stew:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Add the Meatloaf:
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the sliced meatloaf to the pot. Gently stir to combine, making sure the meatloaf slices are submerged in the stew. Let the stew simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve the Cowboy Stew:
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the stew into bowls, making sure each serving has a good mix of potatoes, meatloaf, and the rich, flavorful broth. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Making the Best Cowboy Stew with Potatoes and Meatloaf:
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, corn, or peas to the stew for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Leftover Meatloaf: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover meatloaf. Simply prepare the stew and add the meatloaf slices towards the end of cooking.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the stew.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This stew stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cowboy Stew with Potatoes and Meatloaf is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. The combination of tender potatoes, hearty meatloaf, and a rich, savory broth creates a flavor that’s truly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner on a chilly evening or a dish that’s sure to please a crowd, this Cowboy Stew delivers every time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s easy to make, uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to become a new family tradition.