This dish always brings the best aroma into the home and everyone loves it instantly.

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal that brings a little bit of the Lone Star State to your kitchen, this Texas Cowboy Stew is just the thing. It's packed with bold flavors and is perfect for those chilly Midwest evenings when you need something warm and satisfying. The origins of cowboy stew trace back to the rugged range cooks in Texas who needed to create filling, one-pot meals for cowboys on cattle drives. Now, it's a wonderful way to feed your family with minimal effort and maximum taste, especially when you’re busy balancing life and work. It’s also an excellent dish for gatherings or potlucks because it feeds a crowd and always hits the spot.

Texas Cowboy Stew pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. You can also serve it with a simple green salad to add a touch of freshness to your meal. If you're feeling extra indulgent, top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for even more comfort.

Servings: 6-8

1 pound ground beef
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces each)
1 can whole kernel corn, drained (15 ounces)
1 can Ranch-style beans or pinto beans, drained (15 ounces)
1 can diced green chiles (4 ounces)
4 cups beef broth
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

2. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.

3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker.

5. Add the sliced smoked sausage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained corn, drained beans, diced green chiles, and beef broth to the slow cooker.

6. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

7. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The flavors will meld together beautifully, creating a savory and rich stew.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Feel free to get creative with your Texas Cowboy Stew! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes if you have them on hand. If you prefer a bit more kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For a smoky twist, you can use smoked paprika instead of regular chili powder. If you're pressed for time, you can even prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge, so all you have to do is dump everything into the slow cooker in the morning. Enjoy making this your own and adapting it to your family's taste preferences.