Bologna Stew

A Hearty, Homestyle Stew Made with a Humble Hero: Bologna.

 Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

• Total Time: 50–60 minutes

• Difficulty:  (Easy)

• Servings: 6

• Cuisine: American, Depression-Era Comfort Food

• Course: Main Dish, Dinner

 What Is Bologna Stew?

Bologna Stew is one of those old-school, stick-to-your-ribs dishes passed down from grandparents who knew how to stretch a dollar. Often associated with Depression-era cooking or rural Americana, this stew transforms thick-cut bologna into a rich, savory comfort food meal using common pantry staples like potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and broth.

It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly delicious — think of it as the poor man’s sausage stew, with bold, smoky flavor and a tomato-based broth that’s both rich and hearty.

 Ingredients

 Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) thick-cut bologna, diced into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2–3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• 1 stalk celery, diced (optional)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

• 3 cups chicken broth or beef broth

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• Salt to taste

• Dash of hot sauce or cayenne (optional, for heat)

 Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas or green beans (added at the end)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika for added depth

• Crusty bread or biscuits for serving

 Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven

• Cutting board + knife

• Stirring spoon or spatula

• Ladle for serving

• Peeler (for potatoes)

 Instructions

 Step 1: Sauté the Bologna

Time: 5–7 minutes

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil or bacon grease over medium heat.

2. Add the cubed bologna and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to brown and crisp on the edges (5–7 minutes).

3. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.

Tip: You want the bologna to caramelize — that’s where the flavor comes from.

 Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Time: 5–7 minutes

1. In the same pot (don’t wipe it out!), add the onions, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.

2. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Deglaze with a splash of broth if the bottom of the pot is browning — that’s flavor!

 Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Potatoes & Broth

Time: 5 minutes

1. Add in the diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth.

2. Stir well to combine and dissolve the tomato paste.

3. Return the browned bologna to the pot.

4. Add the paprika, thyme, black pepper, and optional Worcestershire sauce.

 Step 4: Simmer

Time: 25–30 minutes

1. Bring the stew to a low boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

2. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.

3. Stir occasionally, scraping the bottom to prevent sticking.

Optional: Add green beans or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

 Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Time: 2–3 minutes

1. Remove lid and taste the broth.

2. Add salt, pepper, or hot sauce as needed.

3. If you want a thicker stew, mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot and stir.

 Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the bologna stew into bowls and serve hot with:

• Buttered crusty bread

• Saltine crackers

• Buttermilk biscuits

• Or just enjoy it as-is — it’s filling on its own!

 Storage & Reheating

Stew thickens in the fridge — you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

 Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)

Varies based on bologna type and broth used. Use lower-sodium broth to reduce salt content.

 Variations

 Tips for Success

• Use thick-cut deli bologna or a bologna chub — the kind you can dice like ham. Thin-sliced won’t hold up well.

• For added depth, sauté in bacon grease or add a pinch of brown sugar to the tomatoes.

• Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving — flavors develop as it sits.

• Make it a one-pot meal by adding 1/2 cup of uncooked rice or small pasta and simmering until tender.

 FAQ

Can I use leftover bologna?
Yes — this is a great way to use up bologna that’s nearing its expiration date. Just be sure it’s still safe and has been refrigerated.

What kind of bologna is best?
Thick-cut beef or all-meat bologna works best for flavor and texture. Avoid thin, sandwich-sliced bologna.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the bologna and aromatics first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

 Final Thoughts

Bologna Stew may sound unconventional, but it’s a classic example of how simple, affordable ingredients can create rich, comforting meals. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a hearty dish that feeds a family, warms the soul, and brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen.