Taco Stew
Taco Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and classic taco seasonings. It offers a savory, spicy profile perfect for a quick family dinner or weekend gathering. Topped with chips and cheese, it's a comforting meal with vibrant Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, onion, and garlic powder together in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked meat with the tomato sauce, hominy, chili beans, Ro-Tel, chili powder, taco seasoning, and Hidden Valley Ranch in a slow cooker.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Serve the stew in bowls, topped with corn chips and cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños while browning the meat. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the garlic powder to your taste, and if you have fresh garlic on hand, it's a great addition! This taco stew can be customized with your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the taco stew hot in bowls, garnished with crunchy corn chips and shredded cheese for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad. For an extra kick, offer hot sauce or diced jalapeños on the side. Consider serving it alongside other Mexican recipes for a themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Taco Stew contains roughly 1967 calories, with 57g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (114% of the Daily Value), calcium (100% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 the taco stew?
Yes, taco stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. The flavors often deepen after freezing, making it even more delicious.
What can I use instead of hominy?
If you don't have hominy, you can substitute it with canned corn or even cooked quinoa for a different texture. While it won't provide the same unique flavor, it will still deliver the hearty feel of the stew. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning as needed.
How spicy is this taco stew?
The spice level can vary based on the chili powder and Ro-Tel used. If you prefer a milder stew, opt for mild chili powder and a can of diced tomatoes instead of the spicy version of Ro-Tel. For heat lovers, add extra chili powder or fresh jalapeños to kick it up a notch.
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).