Taco Stew Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

When you think of cozy evenings with delicious food, taco stew should definitely have a spot on your menu. It’s a hearty dish that combines the warmth of home cooking with the zesty flavors of tacos. This stew is perfect for pairing with a myriad of side dishes. 

Think cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple garden salad. Let’s dive into the world of taco stew and discover why it deserves a permanent place in your recipe repertoire.

What is Taco Stew?

Taco stew is essentially a deconstructed taco, simmered together in a pot. Imagine all your favorite taco ingredients combined into a comforting, hearty stew that warms you from the inside out. It’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. 

The blend of seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes creates a rich, satisfying meal. You can serve it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions, making it an interactive dining experience.

What Does It Taste Like?

The taste? It’s a delightful medley of flavors. The savory ground beef meets the sweetness of corn and tanginess of tomatoes, while the spices bring everything to life. Each bite offers a balance of richness and zest. 

You get a slight kick from the chili flakes, perfectly complemented by a dollop of creamy sour cream. It’s a flavor explosion, one that satisfies both the hunger pangs and the taste buds!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Convenient Ingredients: Taco stew uses everyday pantry staples. Canned tomatoes, beans, and frozen corn make it easy to whip up. No need for a special grocery run!

2. One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one pot. Not only does this save time, but it also means fewer dishes to wash. Who doesn’t appreciate a minimal-cleanup meal?

3. Flavorful Spices: The use of a homemade taco spice blend ensures rich flavors. This custom blend allows you to adjust the heat and taste according to your preference.

4. Customizable Base: Taco stew is highly versatile. You can swap out proteins or veggies based on your preference or what you have available. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some jalapeños or zucchini.

Ingredients for Taco Stew

• 1 medium onion, finely diced (or substitute with pre-cooked ground beef for convenience)
• 1 lb lean ground beef, cooked and crumbled
• 1 can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can of sweet corn kernels, drained
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of homemade taco spice blend
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes

Optional toppings:

• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Sliced green onions
• Dollop of sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely dicing the onion. If time is tight, feel free to use pre-cooked ground beef or frozen onion. Gather all your ingredients to keep your cooking space organized.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This will take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

Step 3: Add the Onions

After the beef is browned, toss in the diced onion. Cook until it softens, roughly 3-4 minutes. The aroma of sautéed onion will fill your kitchen and tease the taste buds!

Step 4: Mix in the Spices

Stir in the taco spice blend, sea salt, smoked cumin, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Allow these to cook for another minute. This helps the spices bloom and release their full flavors.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now, it’s time to add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

After simmering, taste your taco stew. Adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like more heat, add a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions for an extra punch of flavor.

Notes

• Freezing: Taco stew freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance. It’s easy to make it milder!
• Make Ahead: This stew can be prepared a day in advance and reheats wonderfully.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Storage: If storing, add toppings to individual servings to keep things fresh.

How to Store Leftovers?

Once you’ve enjoyed your taco stew, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Use airtight containers to keep the stew fresh. 

It will stay good for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage; just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Sides for Taco Stew

1. Cornbread: Cornbread pairs perfectly with taco stew. Its sweetness balances out the savory flavors. You can bake a simple batch or buy pre-made from your local bakery.
2. Tortilla Chips: A crunchy side that everyone loves. Serve with homemade salsa on the side for an added flavor boost. It’s like bringing the fiesta to your dinner!
3. Simple Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad complements the richness of the stew. Use leafy greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette to keep it refreshing.
4. Guacamole and Chips: Avocado lovers rejoice! Guacamole served with tortilla chips makes for a great snack or side. Its creaminess enhances the meal experience.

Alternative Choices to Ingredients

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you want to lighten things up, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. It still delivers protein without the extra fat.
2. Quinoa or Rice: If you don’t have beans on hand, quinoa or rice can provide a different texture and flavor. Serve it as a base for the stew.
3. Zucchini or Bell Peppers: These veggies can add bulk and nutrition. Dice them up and toss them in during the simmering stage.
4. Canned Tomatoes: If you don’t have fire-roasted diced tomatoes, regular diced tomatoes will work just fine. You can add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Taco stew is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration in a bowl. With its hearty ingredients and ability to be modified based on what’s in your pantry, this dish is a winner for any occasion. 

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, the comforting warmth of taco stew leaves a lasting impression. 

It’s easy to prepare, easy to enjoy, and even easier to share with friends and family. So why not whip up a batch tonight and let it add a little zest to your meal routine? You won’t regret it!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Haddock Taco Copycat Recip
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Taco Stew Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

When you think of cozy evenings with delicious food, taco stew should definitely have a spot on your menu. It’s a hearty dish that combines the warmth of home cooking with the zesty flavors of tacos. This stew is perfect for pairing with a myriad of side dishes. 

Author: Rachel Garland Cuisine: Mexican Courses: Main Course

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 6 Calories: 475 kcal Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Servings

• 1 medium onion, finely diced (or substitute with pre-cooked ground beef for convenience)

• 1 lb lean ground beef, cooked and crumbled

• 1 can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes

• 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can of sweet corn kernels, drained

• ¹⁄₂ cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth

• 2 tablespoons of homemade taco spice blend

• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon smoked cumin powder

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon chili flakes

Optional toppings:

• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Sliced green onions
• Dollop of sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Start by finely dicing the onion. If time is tight, feel free to use pre-cooked ground beef or frozen onion. Gather all your ingredients to keep your cooking space organized.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it's browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This will take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

Step 3: Add the Onions

1. After the beef is browned, toss in the diced onion. Cook until it softens, roughly 3-4 minutes. The aroma of sautéed onion will fill your kitchen and tease the taste buds!

Step 4: Mix in the Spices

1. Stir in the taco spice blend, sea salt, smoked cumin, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Allow these to cook for another minute. This helps the spices bloom and release their full flavors.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Now, it’s time to add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

1. After simmering, taste your taco stew. Adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like more heat, add a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Step 8: Serve

1. Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions for an extra punch of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 472kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 23.6g37%

Saturated Fat 12.5g63%

Trans Fat 0.6g

Cholesterol 113mg38%

Sodium 1664mg70%

Total Carbohydrate 29g10%

Dietary Fiber 3g12%

Sugars 13g

Protein 37g74%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Freezing: Taco stew freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice tolerance. It's easy to make it milder!
• Make Ahead: This stew can be prepared a day in advance and reheats wonderfully.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Storage: If storing, add toppings to individual servings to keep things fresh.

Keywords: taco stew recipe