Oh my goodness, let me tell you, this is one of my husband’s absolute favorite meals for a weeknight! It’s such a warm, cozy dish that comes together so easily, it almost feels like magic. The rich flavors of the beef combined with the hearty beans and sweet corn make it a comfort food classic in our house. I love that it’s quick to whip up, so I can spend more time with my family instead of slaving away in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a staple in your weeknight rotation too!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients to make this delicious weeknight meal:

1 lb ground beef: I usually go for lean ground beef for a healthier option, but choose what you love!
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works perfectly—just chop it up to your preferred size.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor; don’t skip it! Mince it finely.
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz): Look for no-salt-added if you want to control the sodium.
1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained: Rinse them well to get rid of that canning liquid.
1 cup corn: I love using frozen corn for its sweetness—just throw it in straight from the bag!
2 cups beef broth: Homemade is great if you have it, but store-bought works just fine too.
2 tsp chili powder: Adjust this based on how spicy you like things. I tend to go a little heavier!
1 tsp cumin: This adds a lovely depth to the dish. Trust me, it’s a must!
Salt to taste: Always add this at the end to really enhance the flavors.

How to Prepare Instructions

Now let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious dish! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You’ll want to let it brown for about 5–7 minutes. The goal is to get it nice and browned all over, which adds so much flavor!

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them in and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen is filled with that amazing aroma—trust me, it’s heavenly!

Step 3: Stir in Remaining Ingredients

Now, let’s bring everything together! Stir in the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, corn, and beef broth. Give it a good mix so all the ingredients are well combined. This is where your pot starts to look and smell like a cozy hug!

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Next up, it’s time to add those spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together really well. Adjust the seasoning to your liking—this is where you can make it your own! I like to add a bit more chili powder for a kick!

Step 5: Simmer the Dish

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This is when all those wonderful flavors meld together, so don’t rush it! Just let it bubble away and fill your home with that amazing smell.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once it’s done simmering, it’s time to dig in! Serve it hot in bowls, and don’t be shy about adding your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. It makes it extra special! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for this delicious weeknight meal. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

This meal is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber to keep you full! Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something nutritious along with all that comforting goodness!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your weeknight meal turns out perfectly every time:

Adjust the Spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the chili powder and cumin to match your taste! If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder a bit.
Mix It Up: Feel free to experiment with different beans or veggies! Black beans, pinto beans, or even some diced bell peppers can add a delightful twist to the dish.
Herbs Add Flavor: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving can brighten the dish and add a pop of color. It’s such a lovely finishing touch!
Topping Suggestions: Don’t skip the toppings! Shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even some avocado slices take this dish to the next level. You could also try tortilla chips for some crunch!
Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze portions for later. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy!

With these tips, you’ll not only make this dish your own but also impress your family with every delicious bite! Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re like me and love to switch things up in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat! This recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are so many fun ways to put your own twist on it. Here are some ideas to keep it fresh and exciting:

Different Beans: Swap out the kidney beans for black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas! Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Vegetable Boost: Add in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach! They not only enhance the nutrition but also add a lovely pop of color.
Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick. You could even toss in some fresh jalapeños for heat!
Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can add a lovely earthiness. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for the best flavor.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before serving for a richer, creamier version. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
Top It Differently: Instead of the usual cheese and sour cream, try toppings like sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, or even some crunchy tortilla strips for added texture.

These variations are perfect for keeping this meal exciting week after week! I can’t wait for you to try them out and discover your own favorite version. Happy experimenting!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this delicious dish ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more special with some fantastic serving suggestions! I love to add a few sides or garnishes that really complement the flavors of the beef and beans. Here are some of my favorites:

Fresh Cornbread: There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of cornbread to soak up all that tasty goodness. It’s sweet, fluffy, and pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the dish.
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. It’s a great way to balance the meal!
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: For a fun twist, serve some creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It adds a delightful texture and flavor that everyone will love!
Rice or Quinoa: If you want to stretch the meal a bit further, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. It makes for a filling and satisfying dinner that feels hearty yet wholesome.
Avocado Slices: Sliced avocado on top or on the side adds a creamy richness that perfectly balances the spices in the dish. Plus, it looks so pretty on the plate!
Shredded Cheese: Don’t forget to have some shredded cheese on hand for topping! A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the hot stew and adds a delightful creaminess.

Mix and match these sides to create a complete dinner experience that your family will rave about! Trust me, serving this dish with any of these options will elevate your weeknight meal to something truly special. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! I know we all want to savor every last bite of this hearty dish. Here’s how to store it properly so it stays just as tasty for your next meal:

Storing Leftovers: Once the dish has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This will help lock in the flavors and keep it fresh. I usually portion it out into smaller containers for easy lunches throughout the week!
Refrigeration: You can keep the leftovers in the fridge for about 3–4 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date, so you know when it was made. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver when you’re reaching for a quick meal!
Freezing: If you want to save it for longer, this dish freezes beautifully! Portion it in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should last for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container since it’ll expand when frozen.
Reheating on the Stovetop: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the stovetop is my go-to method! Just place the stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can definitely use the microwave! Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a paper towel, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between. This method works great, but just be careful as it can get hot spots!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy this comforting meal again and again, without losing any of that delicious flavor. Happy eating!

This is one of my husband’s favorite meals for a weeknight

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This is one of my husband’s favorite meals for a weeknight.

Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, and beef broth.
Add chili powder, cumin, and salt. Mix well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Serve hot.

Notes

Adjust spices to your taste.
Top with cheese or sour cream if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: husband's favorite, weeknight meal, easy dinner

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