This Mexican Ground Beef Stew is packed with flavor! With tender beef, zesty jalapeños, and plenty of spices, it makes a hearty meal that warms the soul.
You can serve it with rice or some warm tortillas—perfect for scooping it up! Honestly, I think I could eat this every day and still want more. 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the stew. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option or ground turkey for a lighter flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or veggie meat crumbles as a substitute.
Jalapeños: They add a nice kick! If you want a milder stew, use bell peppers instead or leave out the seeds from the jalapeños. For extra heat, give serrano peppers a try!
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness of your dish. You could substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, especially if making it vegetarian.
Potatoes: I prefer using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture. Sweet potatoes could be a lovely twist and add a hint of sweetness to the dish!
Cilantro: This fresh herb adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Browned?
Getting that beef well browned is key for building flavor in your stew. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Make sure your pot is hot before adding the ground beef; this prevents steaming.
- Cook in batches if needed — overcrowding the pan can cause the meat to steam instead of brown.
- Let the beef sit without stirring for a minute or two to develop a nice crust before breaking it apart.
Following these steps will ensure that your beef has a rich, deep flavor that will enhance the whole stew!
Mexican Ground Beef Stew with Jalapeño
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 55 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made ahead to save time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a great base for your stew!
2. Add Garlic and Jalapeños:
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced jalapeños to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant. The smell will make your kitchen feel amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart, and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the meat is nicely browned and no longer pink. This deepens the flavor of the stew.
4. Add Vegetables and Spices:
Stir in the diced carrots and potatoes. Then, sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix everything together so the spices coat the meat and veggies well.
5. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Your stew will start to smell wonderful!
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like, stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the stew hot, maybe with some warm tortillas or over a bed of rice. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Stew?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils, beans, or textured vegetable protein instead of the meat.
Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply brown the meat and sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapeños on the stove first. Then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the vegetables and broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve With This Stew?
This stew is delicious served with warm tortillas, over rice, or with a side of cornbread. Fresh avocado slices or a simple salad also make great accompaniments!
