Texas Cowboy Stew

Texas Cowboy Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together savory ground beef, beans, corn, and tomatoes, all simmered with bold taco seasoning. It’s a one-pot meal that’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With its savory flavors and filling ingredients, this stew is sure to warm you up and leave you satisfied.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup beef broth

Directions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, taco seasoning, and beef broth.
4. Bring the stew to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a spoonful of hot sauce for a spicier version.
• Add Vegetables: Include diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Swap Beans: If you prefer, swap the kidney beans or black beans for pinto beans or white beans.
• Make It Cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy stew.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant for a meatless option.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra beef broth or water if it becomes too thick after storage.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
2. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned? You can use fresh or frozen corn, though canned corn is more convenient for this recipe.
3. Can I freeze the stew? Yes, this stew freezes well. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
4. Can I add more beans? Yes, you can add additional beans like pinto beans, great northern beans, or chickpeas if you like.
5. Can I make this stew spicier? Absolutely! Add more taco seasoning, chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños for more heat.
6. Can I add potatoes to the stew? Yes, diced potatoes can be added to the stew. They will need extra cooking time, so simmer the stew a bit longer if you add them.
7. Is this stew gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as the taco seasoning packet does not contain gluten (check the label if you’re unsure).
8. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can brown the beef and onion, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
9. Can I add cheese to the stew? Yes, you can top the stew with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterrey Jack for added creaminess.
10. How do I know when the stew is done? The stew is done when the beans and vegetables are heated through and the flavors have melded together. It should simmer for at least 20 minutes.

Conclusion

Texas Cowboy Stew is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners. Packed with protein, vegetables, and bold flavors, this stew is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a great option for busy nights when you need a filling meal fast. Enjoy it on its own or with some warm cornbread for the perfect cowboy-inspired dinner!

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