Gather ’round, partners! If you’re lookin’ for some hearty, stick-to-your-ribs grub to fuel your next rodeo or ranchin’ adventure, we’ve got just the thing. Introducing our collection of 18 Hearty Cowboy Recipes, sure to satisfy even the hungriest cowpokes and ranch hands out there.
From slow-cooked chili to grilled steaks, campfire stews to cowboy beans, these recipes are straight from the heartland of America – where a good meal can warm your belly and lift your spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned rancher or just lookin’ for some new ideas to rustle up at home, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite cowboy-inspired dishes, each one guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and a rumble to your stomach. So saddle up and let’s get cookin’!
Slow-Cooked Texas Chili
Slow-Cooked Texas Chili Recipe
This hearty chili recipe is a classic Texas-style dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night or any time you need a comforting, flavorful meal. With tender beef, rich tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this slow-cooked chili will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Campfire Dutch Oven Stew
This recipe is perfect for camping trips or backyard gatherings where a warm, comforting stew is just what’s needed to round out the meal. With this easy-to-make Campfire Dutch Oven Stew, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven over the campfire or on a grill.
2. Brown the stew meat in a little oil; set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the potatoes, mixed vegetables, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Return the browned stew meat to the pot and bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and let cook for 2-3 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoky Cowboy Beans
Get ready to saddle up with this hearty and flavorful bean dish that’s perfect for any cowboy cookout or gathering. Smoky Cowboy Beans are a twist on traditional baked beans, with the added depth of smoky bacon and a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the soaked beans, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours or overnight.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the BBQ sauce and crispy bacon.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Grilled Cowboy Steak
Experience the bold flavors of the American West with this mouth-watering grilled cowboy steak recipe. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 4-6 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Brush both sides of the flank steak with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Rustic Chuckwagon Cornbread
Experience the classic charm of a cowboy campfire with this hearty, rustic cornbread recipe. Perfect for satisfying your appetite after a long day of exploring the open range!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup stone-ground yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square cast-iron skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Stir in dry ingredients until just combined; the batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Pour batter into prepared skillet or baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Trailblazer Beef Jerky
Get ready to fuel your adventures with this bold and flavorful beef jerky recipe! With a perfect balance of spices, this Trailblazer Beef Jerky is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or flank steak
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the beef from the marinade and place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Dry with paper towels if necessary.
5. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Wild West Breakfast Skillet
Gather ’round the campfire and start your day off right with this hearty Wild West Breakfast Skillet, loaded with scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and crispy potatoes. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a rustic brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove sausage from the skillet; set aside.
4. Add diced potatoes and onion to the same skillet; cook for 5 minutes or until potatoes start to brown.
5. Crack in eggs and scramble until just set.
6. Stir in garlic, then add back the cooked sausage.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until eggs are fully set and potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Biscuits and Sausage Gravy
Start your day with a warm, flaky biscuit smothered in rich sausage gravy – a Southern staple that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 pound sausage (such as Jimmy Dean), cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a large bowl. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add buttermilk; stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1-inch thickness. Cut into squares or use biscuit cutter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. For gravy, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook for 1 minute.
7. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
8. Add crumbled sausage; season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pioneer-Style Fried Potatoes
This classic recipe is a staple of pioneer cuisine, requiring only basic ingredients and simple preparation to produce crispy, flavorful fried potatoes that pair well with many hearty dishes. Perfect for campfire cooking or rustic gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the potato slices to the flour mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Carefully add the coated potatoes to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the fried potatoes from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Southwestern Cowboy Casserole
Get ready for a flavorful ride with this Southwestern Cowboy Casserole, packed with ground beef, beans, and cheese. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cowboy-approved gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, black beans, kidney beans, corn kernels, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
4. In a separate pot, mix shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add the beef mixture, followed by the cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Open-Fire Cowboy Coffee
Get ready for a bold and rich cup of coffee that’s perfect for the rugged outdoors. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a little bit of cowboy know-how to bring you a delicious brew straight from the campfire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coarse-ground coffee
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by gathering your ingredients and finding a suitable spot for your campfire.
2. Build a small fire, using twigs and kindling to get the flames going.
3. Once the fire is burning steadily, place a metal pot or coffee maker over the flames.
4. Add 1 cup of coarse-ground coffee to the pot and pour in 2 cups of water.
5. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the coffee brew for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired strength.
7. Remove from heat and add butter and sugar to taste (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ranch Hand Meatloaf
Get ready for a bold and flavorful take on the classic meatloaf recipe! This Ranch Hand Meatloaf is packed with rich flavors from ground beef, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, crumbled
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, bacon, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape mixture into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Outlaw Baked Beans
Get ready to raise the stakes with these Outlaw Baked Beans, packed with bold flavors and a hint of rebellion. This ain’t your granddad’s baked beans – we’re talkin’ sweet, tangy, and smoky all in one.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine soaked beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Homesteader’s Chicken Fried Steak
This hearty, homestyle chicken fried steak recipe is a staple of classic comfort food. Crispy breadcrumbs and a rich, creamy gravy make this dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound top round steak, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip steak slices in the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer steaks to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with heavy cream gravy (simply mix heavy cream with pan drippings) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Frontier Apple Cobbler
A classic American dessert that’s perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this Frontier Apple Cobbler is a delicious and easy-to-make treat. Fresh apples, sweet spices, and a crispy crust come together to create a warm and comforting dessert.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Pour apple mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit the top of the apple mixture.
5. Place pie crust on top of apples and crimp edges to seal.
6. Drizzle heavy cream over pie crust and sprinkle with sugar.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rustler’s Ribeye with Whiskey Glaze
This recipe is a masterclass in bold flavors, featuring tender ribeye steak smothered in a rich whiskey glaze. The combination of the two creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 (1.5-2 pound) ribeye steaks
– 1/4 cup whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Grill steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Prairie Onion Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with caramelized onions and tender beef as the stars of the show. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound beef short ribs or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add beef pieces to the pot and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef broth, milk, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20-25 minutes
Lone Star Beef Brisket
Get ready for a taste of Texas with this slow-cooked Lone Star Beef Brisket, infused with the bold flavors of the Lone Star State. This tender and juicy brisket is perfect for a casual dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) beef brisket
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together beef broth, water, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the brisket in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Pour the marinade over the brisket, making sure it’s fully covered.
4. Cover the pot with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 4-5 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to rustle up some serious flavor with these 18 hearty cowboy recipes! From slow-cooked Texas chili and campfire stews, to grilled steaks and rustic cornbread, there’s something for every hungry rancher. Try your hand at making trailblazer beef jerky or pioneer-style fried potatoes. Don’t forget a warm cup of open-fire cowboy coffee to start your day off right. These classic recipes are sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites on the range.
Leave a Reply