This hearty Hamburger Stew is a perfect blend of ground beef, tender vegetables, and warm spices, creating a comforting meal for any chilly evening. The rich broth ties everything together, making each bite hearty and satisfying. Not only is this stew packed with nutrients, but it’s also incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe ensures you’ll have a bowl of homemade comfort ready in no time.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Story Behind Hamburger Stew
Hamburger Stew is a classic comfort dish that has been a staple in kitchens worldwide for decades. Its roots lie in the simplicity of using ground beef, an affordable and versatile protein, combined with hearty vegetables and warm spices to create a one-pot meal. This dish gained popularity as a budget-friendly, wholesome solution for feeding families during economic hardships. Over the years, it has evolved into a cherished recipe for its ease, adaptability, and satisfying flavors.
This stew embodies the essence of comfort food – hearty, warming, and nostalgic. For many, it evokes memories of cozy family dinners, where the rich aroma of a simmering pot filled the kitchen. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering nourishment for both the body and the soul.
Why This Recipe is the Best Choice
- Quick and Easy: Hamburger Stew is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and simple cooking steps, you can have a hearty dinner ready in under an hour.
- Affordable Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday pantry staples and vegetables, making it cost-effective without compromising on taste or nutrition. Ground beef, potatoes, and canned tomatoes are staples you likely already have on hand.
- One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking and clean-up with this one-pot dish. All the ingredients are cooked in a single pot, enhancing the flavors while saving time and effort.
- Customizable: One of the best things about Hamburger Stew is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what’s available in your fridge. Use turkey or plant-based ground meat as a substitute for beef, add more veggies for a nutrient boost, or spice it up with your favorite seasonings.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the mix of beef and vegetables, this stew is a well-rounded meal that provides the energy and nutrients your body needs. Potatoes offer a good dose of carbohydrates, while the vegetables contribute to your daily intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
The Magic of Ingredients
- Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing a rich, savory flavor and a good source of protein. For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
- Potatoes: These add a creamy texture and serve as a hearty base that complements the flavors of the beef and broth.
- Carrots and Celery: These classic stew vegetables bring a subtle sweetness and a delightful crunch to the dish while adding essential vitamins and fiber.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients build a flavorful base, enhancing the overall depth of the stew.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: The acidic sweetness of tomatoes balances the richness of the beef and adds a vibrant color to the stew.
- Beef Broth: This provides a savory, umami-packed liquid that ties all the flavors together.
- Spices and Herbs: Thyme, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce give the stew its classic savory and slightly smoky flavor, while fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish.
Tips for Perfect Hamburger Stew
- Choose Quality Ground Beef: For a richer flavor, use ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20). If you prefer a leaner option, be sure to drain excess fat after browning.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: To ensure even cooking, dice the potatoes, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the stew to simmer ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. The longer it cooks, the more robust the taste.
- Thicken if Needed: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few potato pieces or add a cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking.
Health Benefits of Hamburger Stew
- Rich in Protein: Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- High in Fiber: The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes contributes to fiber intake, promoting healthy digestion.
- Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: This stew is packed with nutrients, including vitamin A from carrots, potassium from potatoes, and iron from beef.
- Low in Added Fats: By using lean ground beef and draining excess fat, you can keep the dish heart-healthy.
Ideal Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Hamburger Stew is a standalone dish that doesn’t require much else to shine. However, here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
- Bread: Pair it with warm crusty bread, dinner rolls, or cornbread to soak up the rich broth.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
- Pickles: A side of pickled vegetables can provide a zesty counterpoint to the richness of the stew.
For a fun twist, serve the stew in bread bowls or over a bed of rice for added texture.
Why It’s Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold winter evening, a simple yet hearty dish for a family dinner, or a recipe that can be made in large batches for meal prep, Hamburger Stew fits the bill. Its universal appeal and adaptability make it a hit for potlucks, casual gatherings, or even as a quick weeknight fix.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili powder or cayenne for a spicy version.
- Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate rosemary or sage for a more herb-forward flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Vegan Version: Swap the beef with plant-based meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Mediterranean Flair: Add olives and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired take on the stew.
Conclusion
This Hamburger Stew is more than just a meal – it’s an experience of comfort, nostalgia, and wholesome nourishment. It’s a dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table, proving that great meals don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
