This hamburger stew is a warm and yummy dish packed with ground beef, veggies, and tasty seasonings all simmered together. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
We all have those busy days when cooking feels like a chore. This stew is an easy solution! Just throw everything in the pot and relax while it cooks. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead. For vegetarian delight, you might substitute with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture. In a pinch, sweet potatoes can give a nice twist. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook a bit quicker.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness to the stew, but pre-sliced carrots or frozen ones work fine too. It’s all about what you have handy!
Beef broth: For a lighter option, chicken broth can be used, or for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works great. Keep an eye on salt levels if your broth is salted.
Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are super handy. If you prefer fresh, just use about 2-3 medium tomatoes. Remember to dice them before adding.
How Do I Make Sure My Stew is Flavorful?
Creating depth in your hamburger stew is all about layering flavors. Start by browning the beef and onions well; this develops a nice base. Here’s how to infuse flavor:
- Cook onions and ground beef together until well browned; don’t rush this step.
- Add in garlic and spices (like thyme, oregano, and paprika); wait a minute to let the herbs release their aromas.
- Simmer the stew long enough for the ingredients to meld. This brings out the flavors—25-30 minutes is key!
- Adjust seasonings at the end. After cooking, taste and decide if it needs more salt, pepper, or even a dash of vinegar to brighten it up.
Following these tips will help you serve a delicious, comforting stew that everyone will love!
Hamburger Stew Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for added depth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hamburger stew will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking. So, in just about 40 minutes, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will add great flavor to your stew!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef into the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there is a lot of grease, drain the excess fat to keep your stew from being too oily.
3. Add Seasonings and Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic along with the dried thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for about 1 minute to really bring out the flavors and aromas.
4. Incorporate the Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Pour in the beef broth, the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice), and stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce if you are using it. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
5. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
6. Add Peas and Adjust Seasoning:
About 5 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Let them heat through. After this, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
Ladle the hot stew into bowls. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot alongside warm biscuits or crusty bread for a truly comforting meal!
Enjoy your cozy and hearty hamburger stew!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. Just be aware that it may have a slightly different flavor, so you might want to add some extra seasonings to enhance the taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken broth works just fine. For a vegetarian stew, use vegetable broth. Just remember to check the salt levels, as some broths can be quite salty!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your hamburger stew will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat to enjoy again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your stew with other veggies like green beans, corn, or bell peppers. Just chop them into similar sizes as the other ingredients for even cooking.
