Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been the game-changer in my life. My kitchen – my go-to kitchen.Hamburger Stew Recipe.Think of it as the Ultimate Comfort Food hug in a bowl, kind of like your grandma’s chicken noodle. What is a beefy, hearty soup? What is stew? Is it delicious and easy to make? Growing up, my mom would whip this up on chilly evenings, and the smell alone would instantly warm up. What is the best way to clean up the whole house What is that one recipe that just screams “home” and now, I’m so excited to pass it along to you!
What is a Hamburger Stew?
So, what exactly *is* hamburger stew? Well, imagine a rich and savory broth brimming with tender ground beef, soft potatoes, sweet carrots, and maybe even a handful of peas if you’re feeling fancy! It’s essentially a simplified, weeknight-friendly version of a classic beef stew, but instead of using chunks of beef, we’re using good old ground beef (or hamburger, if you prefer!). Think of it as a hearty, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for using up leftover veggies. It’s essentially a complete meal in a bowl, and it’s surprisingly adaptable. I’ve even thrown in leftover green beans from Thanksgiving before, and it was delicious! Seriously, this is your blank canvas for a cozy, satisfying dinner.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons why there are a million reasons for this.Hamburger Stew Recipe. is a total winner in my book, but let me break it down for you. First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. The combination of the savory beef, the earthy vegetables, and that rich, comforting broth… it’s pure magic! What I love most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make. Seriously, even on the busiest weeknights, I can throw this together in under an hour. And let’s talk about cost-efficiency – you can make a huge batch of this stew with simple, affordable ingredients. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week. I often double the recipe and freeze half for future dinners – it’s a total lifesaver!
Plus, it’s endlessly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, add a touch of spice with some Red Pepper flakes, or even stir in a can of diced tomatoes for extra acidity. It’s like a hug in a bowl, but you get to decide how big and cozy that hug is. Compared to other beef stews, this hamburger stew is lighter and faster, but still packed with flavor, and a great choice when you want a hearty meal without the long cooking time. I honestly think you will adore it. My kids ask for this at least twice a month!
How do I make Hamburger Stew?
Quick Overview
Making this Hamburger Stew Recipe. is truly a breeze. First, you’ll brown the ground beef with some onions and garlic (the aroma alone is worth it!). Then, you’ll add in your favorite vegetables, some beef broth, and a few seasonings. Simmer it all together until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. This is where the magic happens! The simplicity of this recipe is what makes it so special. It’s straightforward, comforting, and always delivers a delicious result. No fancy techniques or complicated steps – just pure, simple cooking at its finest.
Ingredients
For the Main Stew:
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer lean ground beef, but any kind works!)
* 1 large onion, chopped (yellow or white onion are perfect)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder if you’re in a pinch)
* 4 cups beef broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt)
* 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed (I like Yukon Gold for their creamy texture)
* 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 cup frozen peas (optional, but they add a nice sweetness and color)
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt to taste
Optional Thickening
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour * 1/4 cup cold water * 1 cup all purpose flour
What are the steps to
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. How do I drain off grease from a stew?
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Should onions be translucent and fragrant? I always add a pinch of salt at this point to help them release their flavor.
Step 3: Add Broth and Vegetables
What is the recipe for beef broth? Make sure all the vegetables are submerged in the broth. If not, add a little extra broth or water.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Set aside. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. When the vegetables are tender, cook them for about 5 minutes. Where do the flavors start to meld together?
Step 5: Add Peas (Optional)
If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They only need a few minutes to thaw and heat through.
Step 6: Thicken (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold water in an airtight container. If it’s too dry to make, add the remaining flour. What is called a slurry? Gradually stir the slurry into the stew and cook for a few more minutes, until it has thickened. How do I thicken a liquid to your desired consistency? I usually skip this step, but it’s a great option if you like to make stew.
Step 7: Season to Taste
What is the best stew to make? What are the best ways to keep a stew from oversimmering?
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Hamburger Stew Recipe – HowI like to top mine with a dollop of sour cream, but it’s also delicious on top. What are some good side dishes to serve with crusty bread?
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
This Hamburger Stew Recipe.What are some good ways to jazz up a meal? What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: a bowl of Ice Cream.
For a simple lunch: What are some good optionsWhat are some of the best comfort food recipes?
What is a good cozy dinner?What are some good side dishes to serve with a side of bread? What’s a good way to soak up broth?
For a Hearty Feast:What is the best way to serve stew over mashed potatoes?
What is a lighter meal?Serve with a side salad. The freshness of the salad balances out the depth of stew.
My family loves a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Is it bad for your health? Sometimes I’ll even add a swirl of pesto for extra flavor! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and sides to find your perfect side. What is the perfect combination
What are some tips for perfecting a Hamburger Stew?
What are some tips for perfecting a Hamburger Stew?
Want to take your Hamburger Stew Recipe to the next level? Here are some of my top tips, learned from years of making this dish:
Beef Quality: Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. I find that 85% lean ground beef strikes the perfect balance between flavor and leanness.
Vegetable Prep: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. This will ensure that everything is perfectly tender at the same time.
Broth Choice: Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor. I prefer low-sodium broth so I can control the salt level.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. This is especially good if you like a bit of heat!
Herb Power: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs. Thyme and rosemary are classic choices, but you can also try oregano, basil, or parsley.
Slow and Steady: Simmer the stew over low heat for the best flavor. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Thickening Tips: If you want a thicker stew, use a slurry of flour and cold water. Mix them together thoroughly before adding them to the stew to prevent lumps.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor. It adds a savory umami note that really enhances the dish.
I also like to add a bay leaf while the stew simmers. Just remember to remove it before serving! Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference in the final result. One mistake I made early on was using too much salt. Now I always start with a little and add more to taste at the end.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Hamburger Stew Recipe is perfect for meal prepping and leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Room Temperature: Do not leave the stew at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the stew in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date.
Thawing Methods: Thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This is the safest way to thaw it.
Reheating Tips: Reheat the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute or so to ensure even heating.
One thing I’ve learned is that the flavor of the stew actually improves after it’s been refrigerated. The flavors meld together even more, making it even more delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Hamburger Stew Recipe a try! It’s a comforting, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. I know you’ll love how simple it is to make and how much flavor it packs. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup and stew recipes for more inspiration! And please, let me know in the comments how yours turns out! Did you add any special ingredients? Did your family love it as much as mine does? I can’t wait to hear from you! Happy cooking!
