This hearty hamburger stew is the perfect meal for a cozy night. It features juicy ground beef, tender veggies, and a rich broth that brings everything together.
It’s a true one-pot wonder! I love how easy it is to whip up and how all the flavors blend happily in the pot. You won’t have leftovers for long! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I always use 80/20 ground beef for the right mix of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too, though it may lack some richness.
Potatoes: I use russet potatoes for their creamy texture, but Yukon Golds or red potatoes are great choices too. Just make sure to cut them into even slices for consistent cooking.
Carrots: Fresh whole carrots add sweetness. If you don’t have fresh ones, you can use frozen, though they might soften quicker during cooking.
Beef Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine. For a vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable broth and swap out the beef for lentils or mushrooms.
Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! A dash of cayenne can add a kick, or try herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make Sure My Stew is Full of Flavor?
Flavorful stew comes from cooking the ingredients in the right order. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic; this builds a solid flavor base. Make sure to brown the ground beef to develop its taste, and don’t skip the herbs and spices—they really make a difference.
- Cook onions until they’re soft before adding garlic to avoid burning.
- Let the beef brown properly to create a nice deep flavor; this can take some patience.
- Simmer gently once you’ve added the vegetables, as this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
By following these tips, your hamburger stew will be rich and satisfying every time!
How to Make Hamburger Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Stew:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Bread rolls, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hamburger stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, so you can expect a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor!
2. Cook the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir for another 30 seconds until you smell that delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it out for a healthier stew!
4. Mix in the Seasonings:
Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the Vegetables and Broth:
Next, add the sliced potatoes, chopped carrots, beef broth, and the optional diced tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the stew to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes and carrots are tender. The flavors will deepen and come together beautifully!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. A little tweak can make all the difference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot stew in bowls, topped with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Don’t forget the side of crusty bread rolls for dipping!
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful hamburger stew, perfect for any chilly day!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this stew. Just be aware that it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture; consider using a bit more seasoning to enhance it.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Just ensure that the broth complements the other ingredients in your stew.
How Should I Store Leftover Hamburger Stew?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure they’re cut into small pieces for even cooking.