Name: Brunswick Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 cups cooked pulled pork; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen); 1 1/2 cups lima beans or butter beans (cooked or canned); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (or to taste); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing)

Brunswick Stew is a Southern comfort food classic that warms the soul as much as the belly. It’s the kind of hearty, slow-simmered dish that carries stories of backyard barbecues, fall bonfires, and big family gatherings. Packed with tender shredded meats, sweet corn, creamy butter beans, and a rich tomato base, this stew is the epitome of cozy and filling.

Traditionally a way to use up leftover smoked meats, Brunswick Stew has evolved into its own delicious entity over the generations. Every spoonful offers layers of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors that meld perfectly. Whether you serve it up on a chilly night or dish it out at a cookout, this stew always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Brunswick Stew

This stew is satisfying and flavorful without being overly complicated. It combines the heartiness of a meat-packed soup with the brightness of vegetables and barbecue-inspired seasonings. You’ll love how versatile it is—you can use chicken, pork, or beef, and it’s a great way to repurpose leftovers into something exciting.

Plus, it freezes well, feeds a crowd, and only gets better with time as the flavors develop. Whether you’re cooking it low and slow on the stovetop or tossing it in a slow cooker, Brunswick Stew delivers Southern goodness in every bite.

What Meat Works Best in Brunswick Stew?

Brunswick Stew is famously flexible when it comes to proteins. Smoked pulled pork gives the stew a deep, rich flavor and is perhaps the most classic option. But shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that still tastes amazing. Some versions even mix in beef brisket for an extra hearty touch. You can also use a combination of meats for deeper flavor. No matter what meat you choose, make sure it’s cooked and tender before adding it to the stew.

Ingredients for the Brunswick Stew

This stew is packed with soul-satisfying ingredients that balance smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Each element plays an important role in building the stew’s character, and while you can adapt to what you have on hand, sticking to these core items will give you that classic taste.

Cooked shredded chicken: The main protein, bringing tenderness and flavor.
Cooked pulled pork: Adds a smoky depth and meaty richness.
Chicken broth: Provides the savory liquid base.
Crushed tomatoes: Give the stew its hearty tomato backbone.
Tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the stew.
BBQ sauce: Adds smoky-sweetness and tang.
Yellow onion: Brings aromatic sweetness and body.
Garlic: Adds warm, savory depth.
Corn kernels: A pop of sweetness and texture.
Lima beans or butter beans: Creamy and filling.
Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and complexity.
Hot sauce: For a little Southern kick.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to balance it all.

How To Make the Brunswick Stew

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

In a large stockpot, heat a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add the tomato base

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth. Let this simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add vegetables and meats

Toss in the corn, butter beans, cooked chicken, and pulled pork. Stir well, bring it back to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better for deep flavor.

Step 4: Season and adjust

Add hot sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like your stew spicier or smokier, you can add more BBQ sauce or hot sauce.

Step 5: Serve warm

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. It thickens up as it cools, so it’s even better the next day.

Serving and Storing Brunswick Stew

Brunswick Stew is best served piping hot with a chunk of cornbread or a buttered biscuit on the side. It makes a satisfying main dish, especially during cooler weather. This recipe easily feeds 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.

What to Serve With Brunswick Stew?

Classic Cornbread

Soft, crumbly, and slightly sweet cornbread is the ideal pairing for soaking up every bit of the stew.

Southern Biscuits

Flaky and buttery biscuits balance the stew’s tangy richness perfectly.

Collard Greens

A side of tender greens adds a healthy, earthy component.

Pickled Okra or Jalapenos

Bright, tangy pickles give a zingy contrast that cuts through the stew’s richness.

Deviled Eggs

A cool, creamy bite that pairs surprisingly well with smoky stew.

Sweet Tea

No Southern meal is complete without a tall glass of sweet tea.

Potato Salad

Creamy, chilled potato salad adds another layer of comfort to the meal.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Crunchy and tart, these are a classic Southern side that complements the stew’s warmth.

Want More Stew Ideas?

If this Brunswick Stew hit the spot, you might want to try these other hearty and cozy favorites:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a quick comfort pasta.
No Peek Chicken Casserole when you need something cozy and easy.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with loads of umami flavor.
Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms for a hearty skillet dinner.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup when soup night needs a flavor upgrade.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can make it anytime you crave a cozy Southern stew.

And if you try it, let me know how it turned out! Did you use pork, chicken, or a mix of both? Maybe you added smoked brisket? I’d love to hear your version.

Explore beautifully curated comforting meals and cozy stews on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite bowl.

Conclusion

Brunswick Stew is a Southern staple that brings together rich meats, sweet vegetables, and tangy barbecue flair in one delicious bowl. It’s easy to customize, make-ahead friendly, and undeniably satisfying. Whether you’re new to Southern cuisine or grew up with a bowl in hand, this recipe brings a whole lot of comfort to the table.