Brunswick Stew is the ultimate Southern comfort dish, rich with smoky barbecue flavors, hearty vegetables, and tender meats that melt together in one delicious bowl. Traditionally, it was cooked outdoors in large cast-iron pots, slowly simmered for hours, and shared among big gatherings. Every family had their own variation, but the soul of the recipe was always the same—something warm, filling, and made to bring people together.
This crock pot version keeps all the flavor and tradition of classic Brunswick Stew but makes the process incredibly easy. With the help of canned goods and rotisserie chicken, you can enjoy this iconic dish without spending the entire day in the kitchen. Just toss everything in your slow cooker, let it simmer, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make Easy Crock Pot Brunswick Stew:
- 2 cans Castleberry’s Brunswick Stew
- 1 can white corn, drained
- 1 can cream-style corn
- 1 can baby lima beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can Castleberry’s BBQ beef
- 1 can Castleberry’s BBQ pork
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 3–4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Crystal hot sauce (or hot sauce of choice)
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 diced onion
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
This combination of BBQ meats, corn, beans, and tomatoes creates the hearty base, while the Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce bring tang and spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Drain the cans of corn and lima beans. Dice the onion, shred the rotisserie chicken, and set everything aside. Preparing all ingredients before you begin makes the process smoother.
Step 2: Combine in the Crock Pot
Add all ingredients—Castleberry’s Brunswick Stew, BBQ beef, BBQ pork, shredded chicken, vegetables, tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, onion, pepper, and a pinch of salt—into your slow cooker. Stir gently to mix.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the stew is bubbling and heated through. The slow simmer allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning. Add more hot sauce for spice or extra Worcestershire for tang.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with cornbread, biscuits, or saltine crackers for the full Southern experience.
Why This Recipe Works
- Time-saving – Uses canned goods and ready-made BBQ meats for convenience.
- Flavor-packed – BBQ beef and pork add smoky depth you can’t get from just chicken.
- Comforting – Thick, hearty, and loaded with vegetables and proteins.
- Crowd-pleasing – Makes a generous amount, perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
Tips for the Best Brunswick Stew
- Go easy on the salt – The BBQ meats and broth already contain sodium. Taste before adding extra.
- Use rotisserie chicken – It saves time and adds incredible flavor from the roasted skin.
- Balance the heat – If cooking for kids, reduce the hot sauce and serve extra on the side for spice lovers.
- Thicken if needed – If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it smoky – Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a campfire-like depth.
Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about Brunswick Stew is how flexible it is. Each region—and even each household—puts their own twist on it.
- Vegetable-packed – Add okra, green beans, or carrots for more veggies.
- Sweet kick – Mix in a spoonful of brown sugar or molasses to balance the tang.
- Meat lovers’ version – Add pulled pork leftovers, brisket, or smoked sausage.
- Low-carb – Skip the lima beans and corn, and load up on leafy greens or cauliflower.
- Spicy Southern style – Use extra hot sauce and even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Brunswick Stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides.
- Cornbread – Sweet or savory cornbread makes the perfect companion.
- Buttermilk biscuits – Great for scooping up the stew.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy, refreshing contrast to the richness.
- Grilled cheese – A gooey sandwich alongside a bowl of stew is unbeatable.
- Crackers or hushpuppies – For easy dipping and crunch.
Make-Ahead and Storage Guide
This stew not only tastes amazing the first day but gets even better after a night in the fridge.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the slow cooker.
- Reheating tip: If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brunswick Stew made of?
Traditionally, Brunswick Stew includes a mix of meats like chicken, pork, or beef, along with corn, beans, and tomatoes. Each version may differ, but it’s always hearty and smoky.
Where did Brunswick Stew originate?
It’s debated between Brunswick County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia. Both claim to be the birthplace, but no matter its origin, it’s a Southern staple.
Can I make Brunswick Stew without BBQ meats?
Yes. You can use only chicken or substitute with shredded turkey, ham, or even vegetarian meat alternatives.
How spicy is this stew?
The level of spice depends on how much hot sauce you add. Start light and increase to taste.
Can I cook Brunswick Stew on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?
Absolutely. Simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for about 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Is Brunswick Stew supposed to be thick or soupy?
Traditionally, it’s a thick stew. If it turns out too thin, remove the lid in the last half hour of cooking or stir in a spoonful of instant mashed potato flakes to thicken.
Final Thoughts
Easy Crock Pot Brunswick Stew is proof that you don’t need to spend all day at the stove to enjoy a timeless Southern dish. By combining canned goods, barbecue meats, and fresh chicken in the slow cooker, you get a stew that’s smoky, savory, and full of comfort.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a church potluck, or just craving something warm on a chilly night, this stew delivers every time. Serve it with cornbread and sweet tea, and you’ll have a true Southern feast that would make Grandma proud.