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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Hamburger Stew on a chilly evening, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made this Hamburger Stew; it was a rainy weekend, and I was craving something hearty yet simple. With ground beef, fresh veggies, and a rich tomato base, this Hamburger Stew comes together in under an hour, filling your kitchen with an aroma that’s pure home. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without much fuss.
In my experience, Hamburger Stew is a lifesaver for busy weeknights—versatile enough to tweak with what you have on hand, but always delivering that savory, satisfying punch. I’ve shared this recipe with friends who swear it’s their new go-to for family dinners. If you’re looking for an easy way to turn basic ingredients into something special, this Hamburger Stew is it. Let’s dive in and get cooking; I can’t wait for you to taste it!
Oh, and if you love quick beef dishes like this, check out our creamy beef and shells or the cheesy ground beef pasta skillet for more inspiration.
Key Takeaways:
- This Hamburger Stew is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for cozy family meals.
- Ready in just 45 minutes, saving you time on hectic days.
- Bursting with savory flavors from tender beef and fresh vegetables.
- Use lean ground beef for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat for easy lunches.
Why You’ll Adore This Hamburger Stew
Hearty and Filling: Nothing beats the satisfaction of digging into a bowl of this Hamburger Stew after a long day. The combination of ground beef and chunky veggies makes it incredibly filling, keeping you energized without feeling heavy. In my experience, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters love.
Quick Prep and Cook: You’ll love how fast this Hamburger Stew comes together— no complicated steps or hours of simmering required. It’s all about browning the beef and tossing in the veggies for a flavorful result in under an hour. Here’s the thing: it’s ideal for beginners who want impressive results with minimal effort.
Customizable Comfort: This Hamburger Stew shines because you can adapt it to your tastes, whether adding spice or keeping it mild. The rich, tomatoey broth ties everything together beautifully. What I find interesting is how it evolves with seasonal veggies, making it fresh every time.
Budget-Friendly Meal: Let’s be honest, Hamburger Stew is a steal—using affordable staples like ground beef and potatoes. It stretches to feed a family without breaking the bank, and the leftovers are even better. I’ve made it countless times, and it never disappoints on value or flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Hamburger Stew
Ground Beef: The star of this Hamburger Stew, lean ground beef provides that juicy, savory base you crave. I always opt for 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and fat— it browns beautifully without greasiness. In my experience, it absorbs the spices so well, elevating the entire dish to comforting heights.
Potatoes and Carrots: These hearty veggies add substance and natural sweetness to Hamburger Stew. Potatoes break down slightly for a thicker stew, while carrots bring a pop of color and earthiness. Chop them into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly; it’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.
Tomatoes and Broth: Canned tomatoes create the rich, tangy sauce that defines this Hamburger Stew. Beef broth ties it all together, infusing depth without overpowering the other ingredients. Freshly diced onions and garlic amplify the aroma—trust me, you’ll smell it from across the house.
How to Make Hamburger Stew
Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding a tablespoon of oil. Crumble in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned and no pink remains—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to build that foundational flavor for your Hamburger Stew. Drain any excess fat if needed, but leave a little for richness. What I love here is watching the beef sizzle; it sets the tone for the whole meal.
Add Vegetables and Simmer
Once the beef is ready, toss in diced onions, carrots, and potatoes, stirring for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly. Pour in the canned tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes—the veggies should be tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally and inhale that developing aroma; it’s pure comfort. For a twist, try our beef and barley soup if you want grains in the mix.
Finish and Season the Hamburger Stew
Taste your Hamburger Stew after simmering and adjust seasonings—maybe a dash more salt or herbs like thyme for extra warmth. If it’s too thick, splash in a bit more broth; if thinner, let it reduce uncovered for a few minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully. This step is key in my book; it transforms good into great. Serve hot, and watch it disappear from bowls around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 1 tsp dried thyme
Hamburger Stew Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme if using.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer covered on low for 25-30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Stew
Brown Thoroughly: Don’t rush the browning step— it caramelizes the beef for deeper flavor in your Hamburger Stew.
Even Chops: Cut veggies uniformly so they cook evenly, avoiding any hard bites in the finished stew.
Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped parsley at the end for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich Hamburger Stew.
You Must Know
- This Hamburger Stew serves 4-6 people generously.
- It’s naturally gluten-free if using gluten-free broth.
- Double the batch for freezer-friendly meals.
- Use fresh veggies for the best texture and taste.
How to Store Hamburger Stew
Your Hamburger Stew will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, where the flavors actually deepen over time. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months— just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen it up, stirring until hot throughout. It’s one of those dishes that reheats like a dream.
Customizing Your Hamburger Stew
Feel free to swap potatoes for sweet potatoes in your Hamburger Stew for a nutrient boost and subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully. If you’re vegetarian, ground turkey or even lentils work as alternatives to beef, keeping that hearty feel. Add green beans or corn for more veggies, or spice it up with chili flakes for heat. For low-carb options, check out our ground beef and broccoli for inspiration on lighter twists.
What to Serve with Hamburger Stew
A crusty baguette or cornbread is perfect for sopping up the delicious broth in your meal. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness. For drinks, go with iced tea or a light red wine to complement the savory notes. In colder months, warm apple cider on the side adds a cozy touch that everyone will appreciate.
Hamburger Stew
This hamburger stew recipe is thick, hearty, and easy to make! It's a delicious family meal that uses inexpensive everyday ingredients.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 02 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 03 3 sticks celery (chopped)
- 04 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 05 1 pound lean ground beef
- 06 3 tablespoons flour
- 07 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
- 08 4 cups beef broth (+ more if needed)
- 09 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 10 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 11 2 Russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
- 12 4 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
- 13 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 14 Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Add the oil, onion, and celery to a soup pot and sauté over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with your spoon as you go along, until it's browned (about 8 minutes).
Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes (stirring often).
Stir in the tomato paste.
Add in the broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, potatoes, and carrots. Increase the heat to high and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer and cook, covered (with the lid slightly open), stirring occasionally, for at least 30 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors have had some time to build. Add more broth if the stew starts to get too thick, and if you want it thicker, cook it for longer with the lid off.
Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt & pepper as needed.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Stew
Can I make Hamburger Stew ahead of time?
Absolutely, this Hamburger Stew is great for meal prep—make a batch in the morning and reheat for dinner. The flavors meld even more as it sits, so it’s often tastier the next day. Just store it properly to keep it fresh.
How long does Hamburger Stew last in the fridge?
Hamburger Stew stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days when covered tightly. Beyond that, freeze it to extend its life without losing quality. Always check for any off smells before reheating.
Is Hamburger Stew healthy?
Yes, packed with veggies and lean protein, Hamburger Stew can be a nutritious choice. Opt for low-sodium broth and extra greens to boost its health factor. It’s balanced and filling for everyday eating.
Can I use ground turkey in Hamburger Stew?
Ground turkey works wonderfully as a lighter swap in Hamburger Stew, keeping the texture similar while reducing fat. Brown it just like beef and proceed with the recipe. It adds a subtle twist without overpowering the dish.
What’s the best way to thicken Hamburger Stew?
If your Hamburger Stew is too thin, mash some potatoes against the pot’s side or simmer uncovered to reduce. A cornstarch slurry can help too, but keep it light. These methods maintain that homemade feel.
Can I add beans to Hamburger Stew?
Adding kidney or black beans bulks up Hamburger Stew nicely, making it even heartier. Stir them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering to heat through. It’s a great way to incorporate more protein.
Is Hamburger Stew spicy?
This version of Hamburger Stew is mild and family-friendly, but you can add cayenne or hot sauce for heat. Taste as you go to suit your preference. Adjust based on who you’re serving.
How do I make Hamburger Stew in a slow cooker?
For slow cooker Hamburger Stew, brown the beef first, then dump everything in on low for 6-8 hours. It’s hands-off and tenderizes beautifully. See our crockpot chili for more slow-cooking tips, or try the old-fashioned goulash for variety.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up, this Hamburger Stew is more than a recipe—it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with loved ones on any given night. I’ve made it through seasons, and it never fails to warm hearts and tummies. Give it a whirl this week; you won’t regret it, and I’d love to hear how your version turns out. Happy cooking!