Ranch Stew
A hearty, flavorful beef stew with beans, corn, and tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for those craving a savory, filling meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper in a large skillet or pot.
- Add the remaining ingredients: kidney beans, whole kernel corn, tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, chili powder, and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer on low heat or in a slow cooker for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the stew. If you don't have kidney beans, you can substitute them with black beans or pinto beans. For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ranch Stew hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing side, consider a simple green salad to balance the hearty stew. This dish is perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Ranch Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ranch Stew contains roughly 952 calories, with 49g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (190% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value), and iron (103% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2616mg per serving (114% 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 freeze Ranch Stew?
Yes, you can freeze Ranch Stew for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I serve with Ranch Stew?
Ranch Stew pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. For an extra touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream and some diced avocado on top. These sides complement the hearty flavors of the stew perfectly.
Can I make Ranch Stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make Ranch Stew in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until flavors meld beautifully.
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).