This cozy green chile stew is packed with ground beef and lots of flavor! It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days when you need something comforting.
I always add some tortilla chips for an extra crunch—who can resist that? Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just toss everything in and let it simmer. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives this stew a rich flavor. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. You can even make it vegetarian by using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for protein.
Hatch Green Chiles: These chiles are key for that authentic Southwestern taste. If fresh ones aren’t available, canned green chiles work great. Just make sure they’re mild or hot, depending on your spice preference!
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. For a low-carb option, you can substitute with cauliflower florets, which will cook down nicely in the stew.
Cumin & Chili Powder: These spices add warmth and depth. If you want a little extra kick, try adding cayenne pepper or paprika. Adjust to your taste as everyone’s heat tolerance is different!
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the potatoes just right is essential for a comforting stew. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut your potatoes into even cubes, about 1-inch. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Add them early on in the simmering process, but not too early, so they don’t turn mushy.
- Check them after about 20 minutes. They should be tender but hold their shape. A fork should easily pierce them.
- If they seem too hard, let them simmer a bit longer, but keep an eye on them!
These steps will help you achieve that perfect potato texture that complements the stew beautifully!
Easy Hatch Green Chile Stew With Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Chiles and Tomatoes:
- 2 cups Hatch green chiles, roasted, peeled, and chopped (can substitute with canned green chiles)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
Broth and Seasoning:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy dinner option. In total, you’ll be dining on this flavorful dish in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it off, but keep some for flavor!
2. Sautéing Aromatics:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to your pot. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and smells wonderful!
3. Mixing in Chiles and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in those delicious chopped Hatch green chiles and the undrained diced tomatoes. Let this cook for about 2 minutes to help all the flavors combine beautifully.
4. Adding Broth and Potatoes:
Pour in your beef broth and then add in the cubed potatoes. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the stew to a lively boil! Then, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover it. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are nice and tender.
5. Final Touches:
If you’re adding corn, toss it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Give everything another quick stir and taste! Adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serving Your Stew:
Dish out the stew while it’s hot and steaming. Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and some crushed tortilla chips for a delightful crunch!
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Hatch green chile stew!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef provides a rich flavor, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats!
What If I Can’t Find Hatch Green Chiles?
No worries! If fresh Hatch chiles are unavailable, canned green chiles work perfectly as a substitute. You can also use poblano chiles or Anaheim chiles for a similar taste, just keep in mind the spice level!
Can I Make This Stew Ahead of Time?
Certainly! This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the stew in freezer-safe containers. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results!
