Chili-Fix-In Stew
A hearty, savory stew packed with ground beef, beans, vegetables, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, combine ground beef and one package of chili fixin mix.
- Cook on medium heat until the meat is browned; drain excess fat.
- Pour the cooked meat and mix into a large soup pot, then add the remaining ingredients: onions, kidney beans, English peas, carrots, stewed tomatoes, potatoes, and tomato juice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil on medium heat and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for approximately 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or garlic when cooking the beef. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use different beans like black beans or pinto beans. Adjust the chili fixin mix according to your spice preference, or add some smoked paprika for depth. This stew can be adapted similarly to Groente (Oven) Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili-fix-in stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or shredded cheese. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or coleslaw. This hearty stew is perfect for casual gatherings and is reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking. This chili-fix-in stew also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili-Fix-In Stew contains roughly 1875 calories, with 81g protein, 253g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (242% of the Daily Value), and protein (161% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1478mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas work well in this recipe. Each type of bean will add a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on what you have.
How can I make this stew vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. You can also add lentils or canned beans for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).