If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food packed with smoky barbecue flavor, this Southern Brunswick Stew is it. Loaded with tender pulled pork, shredded chicken, sweet corn, lima beans, and a rich tomato barbecue broth, this hearty stew is often described as “BBQ in a bowl.”
One of the best things about Brunswick Stew is that it’s the perfect way to use up leftover barbecue meats. Whether you have smoked pulled pork, rotisserie chicken, leftover ribs, or a combination of all three, this easy one-pot meal transforms leftovers into a family-favorite dinner.
Serve it with warm cornbread and you’ll have a cozy Southern meal that tastes like it simmered all day long.
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What Is Brunswick Stew?
Brunswick Stew is a classic Southern stew traditionally made with a combination of smoked meats, tomatoes, corn, lima beans, and seasonings. While recipes vary by region, most versions feature a sweet and smoky barbecue flavor profile and plenty of hearty ingredients. It has long been a staple at cookouts, church gatherings, family reunions, and backyard barbecues throughout the South.
This version keeps things simple by using cooked pulled pork and chicken along with pantry staples for a quick and delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Great use for leftover BBQ meats
- Easy one-pot dinner
- Ready in about 35 minutes
- Freezer-friendly
- Perfect for feeding a crowd
- Rich smoky barbecue flavor
- Comfort food everyone loves
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cooked pulled pork
- 12 ounces cooked pulled chicken
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1½ cups sweet-style barbecue sauce
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 16 ounces low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 bag frozen lima beans
- 1 bag frozen corn
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How To Make Brunswick Stew
Step 1: Add Ingredients
Place the pulled pork, chicken, crushed tomatoes, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, lima beans, corn, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into a large Dutch oven or soup pot.
Step 2: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat and simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crackers.
Tips for the Best Brunswick Stew
- Use a combination of pork and chicken for the most authentic flavor.
- Leftover smoked ribs add incredible richness.
- Add a dash of hot sauce if you like extra heat.
- Let the stew simmer longer for even deeper flavor.
- Make it a day ahead—the flavors get even better overnight.
Variations
Add Potatoes
Many Southern versions include diced potatoes for additional heartiness.
Add Okra
Okra is commonly found in traditional Brunswick Stew recipes and adds wonderful texture.
Make It Spicy
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
Slow Cooker Version
Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
What To Serve With Brunswick Stew
The Best Southern Brunswick Stew
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 SERVINGS 1x
Description
This hearty Southern Brunswick Stew combines tender pulled pork, shredded chicken, sweet corn, lima beans, and a rich tomato barbecue broth for the ultimate comfort food meal. Perfect for using leftover BBQ and feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pulled pork
- 12 ounces shredded chicken
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1½ cups barbecue sauce
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 16 ounces chicken stock
- 12 ounces frozen lima beans
- 12 ounces frozen corn
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add the pulled pork, shredded chicken, crushed tomatoes, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, lima beans, corn, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to a large Dutch oven or soup pot.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crackers.
Notes
- Leftover smoked pork shoulder works beautifully in this recipe.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- The stew thickens as it sits and tastes even better the next day.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 30 MINUTES
- Category: Dinner, STEW
- Method: STOVETOP
- Cuisine: SOUTHERN
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Brunswick Stew?
The exact origin is debated, with both Virginia and Georgia claiming to be the birthplace of Brunswick Stew. Today it remains one of the South’s most beloved comfort food dishes.
Can I use only chicken?
Absolutely. While traditional versions often include multiple meats, chicken works wonderfully on its own.
Can I make Brunswick Stew ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, many people think it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
What meat is traditionally used in Brunswick Stew?
Modern recipes typically use pork, chicken, or both. Traditional versions sometimes included game meats depending on the region.
Final Thoughts
This easy Southern Brunswick Stew is rich, smoky, hearty, and loaded with classic barbecue flavor. Whether you’re using up leftover pulled pork after a summer cookout or simply craving a warm bowl of comfort food, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Pair it with a slice of cornbread and enjoy a true taste of Southern comfort.
