Hearty Beef with Green Chile & Potatoes

There's just something about a bubbling pot of Hearty Beef with Green Chile & Potatoes that takes me back to my childhood kitchen. I can still hear the laughter of my family mingling with the savory aromas that filled the air as my mom stirred her famous stew. On chilly evenings, we'd gather around the table, bowls in hand, sharing stories and catching up on our day while savoring every warm bite. It was a ritual, a comforting embrace of home that I’ve carried into my own kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for those crisp fall nights when the leaves are turning, and the air is filled with a hint of spice and warmth. It’s hearty enough to fill you up after a long day, yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, there’s something truly magical about the combination of tender beef, vibrant green chiles, and creamy potatoes that makes this dish a family favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you'll understand why I keep coming back to it!

Why You’ll Love "Hearty Beef with Green Chile & Potatoes"

• Only takes about 20 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple ingredients mean you probably have most of them on hand already!
• It’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Freezer-friendly! Make a big batch and save some for later.
• The flavors get even better the next day, making leftovers a treat.
• It’s a cozy, comforting meal that warms the soul, perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons oil, such as olive or canola
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon cumin, for that warm, earthy flavor
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, because who doesn't love garlic?
• ½ teaspoon oregano, dried is fine
• 1 medium onion, diced, about 1 cup
• 4 cloves garlic, minced, fresh is best!
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced, any variety works but I love Yukon Gold for their creaminess
• 2 cups roasted green chiles, chopped, you can use canned if you're short on time
• 3 cups beef broth, low-sodium recommended for better control of saltiness
• 1 cup water, adjust based on your desired consistency
• 1 tablespoon flour, optional for thickening, use cornstarch for a gluten-free option

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Beef

1. Start by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle when you add the beef.
2. While the oil is heating, season the beef chunks generously with salt, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano. Don’t be shy with the spices; they’re the flavor heroes here!
3. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned beef to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You want that nice, caramelized color for depth of flavor.

Sautéing the Vegetables

1. After the beef is beautifully browned, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. You’ll love how your kitchen smells right about now!
2. Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Keep an eye on it — you don’t want the garlic to burn!

Combining the Ingredients

1. Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the diced potatoes and chopped green chiles to the pot. Give everything a good mix to combine.
2. Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir again to bring it all together. It should look like a beautiful mess at this point!

Cooking the Stew

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. This is where the magic happens — the beef will become incredibly tender and all those flavors will meld together.

Thickening the Stew

1. If you like a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Don’t worry if it looks runny at first; it will thicken up beautifully!

Variations

• Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick.
• Substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Use chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
• Throw in a handful of corn for added sweetness and texture.
• Try different types of chiles for varying heat levels.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Hearty Beef with Green Chile & Potatoes hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm tortillas for dipping and soaking up that delicious broth. You could even whip up a simple salad on the side to balance the richness of the stew!

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer.

Helpful Notes

• For a dairy-free option, skip the sour cream garnish or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Feel free to adjust the spices based on your family's preferences; add more cumin for a deeper flavor.
• If you're short on time, use pre-cooked beef or rotisserie chicken.
• Adding black beans can boost the fiber content and make it heartier.
• Using homemade beef broth will elevate the flavor even more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Hearty Beef with Green Chile & Potatoes?

Yes! This stew freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I substitute for beef in this recipe?

If you want to switch things up, you can use chicken thighs or turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils combined with vegetable broth for that rich flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, freeze it as mentioned earlier. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the stew if it thickens up.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Hearty Beef with Green Chile & Potatoes is more than just making a meal; it's about creating memories around the table. I hope you feel the warmth and love infused in this dish just like I do. Whether it's a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, this stew is sure to bring smiles and full bellies. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this comforting recipe. I promise, it’s one you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every flavorful bite, and happy cooking!

Print