Easy Taco Stew Recipe: A Hearty Mexican Beef Stew for Weeknights & Gatherings
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of beef stew to soothe the soul, especially when the weather turns chilly. It’s a timeless classic, a go-to for family dinners, and a staple in many households. Here on our site, you’ll find beloved recipes like our Mulligan Stew, known for its simplicity and comforting appeal, whether cooked on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. But what if we told you there’s a way to infuse that familiar comfort with an exciting, bold twist? Get ready to redefine your definition of comfort food with our incredible Taco Stew!
Imagine all the heartwarming qualities of your favorite beef stew – tender chunks of beef, robust potatoes, sweet carrots, and savory onions – but reimagined with the vibrant, zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings together the best of both worlds. This Taco Stew recipe takes the traditional elements of a classic beef stew and infuses them with the exciting spice of Rotel, the unmistakable flavor of taco seasoning, and the hearty addition of both pinto and black beans. It’s a game-changer, especially for those looking to put a fresh, exciting spin on Taco Tuesday.
Why This Mexican Beef Stew Will Become Your New Favorite
Switching things up in the kitchen is always enjoyable, and this Mexican-style beef stew offers an irresistible twist on a family favorite. It’s the perfect answer when you crave something hearty and satisfying but also want to explore new flavor profiles. This Taco Stew delivers the rich, deep flavors you expect from a slow-cooked beef stew, combined with the spicy, aromatic notes of a delicious Mexican meal. The best part? It’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
This recipe truly embodies the spirit of #winning with its incredible combination of taste, ease, and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this taco beef stew is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.
The Perfect Blend of Hearty and Healthy Ingredients
Our Taco Stew is packed with wholesome ingredients that contribute to its incredible flavor and satisfying texture. Tender chunks of beef provide a robust base, while potatoes and carrots offer classic stew comfort and essential nutrients. But the real magic happens with the Mexican-inspired additions. The inclusion of two types of beans – pinto and black beans – not only adds to the stew’s heartiness but also boosts its fiber and protein content, making it a surprisingly wholesome meal. Dare we say, it’s a healthy twist on a classic comfort food?
The secret to its distinctive taste lies in the savory blend of seasonings. Rotel, a canned mix of diced tomatoes and green chilies, provides a fantastic kick and a foundational tomato flavor, while a packet of taco seasoning brings all the familiar, delicious notes of your favorite tacos right into your stew. This combination creates a depth of flavor that is both unexpected and utterly delightful.
Cook It Your Way: Stovetop or Crock Pot
One of the best features of this Taco Stew is its adaptability. Whether you prefer a quick stovetop meal or the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe has you covered. It’s perfect for weeknights when time is short, or for those leisurely days when you want dinner to cook itself.
On the stovetop, you can have this Mexican beef stew simmering and ready in just under an hour. It’s a fantastic option for those evenings when you want a hearty, flavorful meal without a long wait. The quick cooking time doesn’t compromise on flavor; the spices and ingredients meld beautifully to create a rich broth.
For ultimate convenience, toss all the ingredients into your crock pot (slow cooker) in the morning and let it work its magic throughout the day. Coming home to the enticing aroma of a ready-made dinner is truly a wonderful experience. The low and slow cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to deepen, resulting in an even more robust and delicious stew. It’s an ideal solution for busy schedules, ensuring a wholesome, home-cooked meal without the evening rush.
A Deceptively Delicious Meal for the Whole Family
This Taco Stew plays delightful tricks on your senses! When it’s simmering, the kitchen fills with the mouth-watering aroma of tacos. You lift the lid, and what do you see? A rich, hearty stew. But take one taste, and you’re instantly transported back to the vibrant flavors of tacos. It’s this ingenious combination that makes it a perfect dish for families. Even the pickiest eaters will be intrigued by the familiar taco notes, while the comforting stew base provides a satisfying meal for everyone.
My own kids couldn’t resist sneaking tastes from the stove as it cooked, a sure sign of its irresistible appeal. It truly bridges the gap between two beloved meals, offering a unique and memorable dining experience.
The Best Toppings for Your Taco Stew
To truly complete the Taco Stew experience, don’t forget the toppings! Spoon generous portions into bowls and customize each serving to your heart’s content. Our top recommendations include a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of melty shredded cheddar cheese, and a handful of crunchy corn chips. These additions provide a delightful contrast in texture and a burst of fresh flavors that elevate the entire dish.
Beyond these classics, feel free to get creative! Sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, diced jalapeños, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce would also make fantastic additions. This stew is also incredibly good served with a side of warm cornbread, soaking up all the savory broth.
Perfect for Any Occasion, From Tailgates to Cozy Nights In
While it’s a phenomenal choice for Taco Tuesday, this hearty Mexican beef stew is versatile enough for any occasion. Imagine serving up bowls of this deliciousness at your next fall tailgating party – it would be an absolute hit! It’s also ideal for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers with friends, or even as a comforting meal prep option for lunches throughout the week. Its robust flavor holds up beautifully, making it just as good, if not better, the next day.
However or wherever you choose to serve it, we urge you to give this Taco Stew a try. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that is sure to earn you rave reviews from everyone at the table. Get ready to add a new staple to your recipe rotation!
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Print Recipe
Taco Stew
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- olive oil
- flour salt and pepper, for dredging
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 10 ounce can Rotel + one can water
- 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups diced carrots
- 3-4 large potatoes. peeled and diced
- 1 15.5 ounce can Pinto beans
- 1 15.25 ounce can black beans
- Shredded cheddar cheese sour cream and corn chips for serving
Instructions
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In a dutch oven or large pot, heat a couple of Tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Season about 2/3 cup of flour with salt and pepper, then spread it on a plate. Dredge the beef stew meat in the seasoned flour and add to the hot oil. Brown the meat on all sides. Once the beef is almost completely browned, add in the chopped onion. Cook for about 5 more minutes until the onion is softened. Stir in the Rotel (with its liquid), the additional can of water, taco seasoning, and tomato paste until well combined. Add in the diced carrots and potatoes. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer until the carrots and potatoes reach your desired tenderness, which typically takes about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Drain and rinse both cans of pinto and black beans, then add them to the stew. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
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If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can easily thicken it by dissolving 1/4 cup of cornstarch in 1/4 cup of cold water and stirring this slurry into the simmering stew. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
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Spoon the hot Taco Stew into individual bowls. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a scattering of corn chips. It also tastes fantastic with a side of warm corn bread!
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To make in the crock pot: After browning the beef stew meat and softening the onion in a separate pan (as described in step 1), transfer them to your slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients, *except* for the beans and any toppings (cheese, sour cream, corn chips). Stir everything to combine, cover, and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the drained pinto and black beans and continue cooking. If the stew isn’t thick enough, you can remove a cup of liquid, whisk in 1/4 cup cornstarch, and return it to the crock pot, stirring until thickened. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
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Pair Your Taco Stew with Amazing Cornbread
As mentioned, this savory Taco Stew goes wonderfully with cornbread. If you’re looking for the perfect companion, my friend Brandi, over at Aunt Bee’s Recipes, has an amazing recipe for Sweet Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread that is absolutely perfect. The hint of sweetness and kick from the jalapeños complement the robust flavors of the stew beautifully.
Craving More Comforting Stews?
If you love hearty stews, be sure to check out our other family favorites. Our Mulligan Stew is a classic that never disappoints, offering a traditional take on this beloved comfort food.
Mulligan’s Stew
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Ready to ignite your taste buds and shake up your dinner routine? Switch up your #TacoTuesday this week with this sensational Taco Stew!