This Hamburger Stew is a warm and hearty dish loaded with ground beef, potatoes, and carrots. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just brown the meat, toss in the veggies, and let it simmer. It’s a family favorite that warms hearts and tummies alike! 🥘
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually opt for 80/20 beef as it has the right balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead; just keep in mind they might cook a bit faster.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the stew. If you have vegetable broth on hand, that works too! You can also use homemade stock if you have it. Just ensure it’s seasoned well.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are great for this stew but feel free to use Yukon gold or russet potatoes. If you want a lower-carb option, you could replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add a nice texture. If you prefer fresh, use about 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced, and remember to adjust the seasoning since fresh tomatoes are less concentrated.
Seasonings: The herbs make a big difference! If you’re out of thyme, Italian seasoning is a good substitute. Fresh herbs can also brighten the dish when added at the end.
How Can I Make Sure My Stew is Flavorful?
Flavorful stew starts with browning the meat well. This step builds a solid base. Don’t rush it! Once the beef is nicely browned, add onions, celery, and garlic, letting their flavors meld together.
- Use a good quality beef broth; it can make a world of difference.
- Let it simmer to allow all the ingredients to blend. Be patient—great flavors develop with time!
- Taste and adjust seasoning, as the flavors will deepen as it cooks.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley; it adds a lovely pop of freshness!
Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hamburger Stew will take about 15 minutes for prep and about 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook. So, in total, you’ll need around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a great meal that you can set and forget while it simmers on the stove!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, and let it get nicely browned. This will take around 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, don’t forget to drain the excess fat!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these together with the beef for about 5 minutes, or until the veggies are soft and fragrant. This adds a wonderful flavor base!
3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
Now, stir in the sliced carrots, halved baby potatoes, and the can of diced tomatoes. Cook these together for another 2 minutes. They’ll start to meld beautifully with the beef and aromatics!
4. Mix in the Broth & Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Simmer the Stew:
Bring the stew to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You want the potatoes and carrots to be tender—check them with a fork!
6. Final Adjustments:
After your stew simmers, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy every comforting bite of your Hamburger Stew!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so watch the sauté time to avoid overcooking.
How Long Does Leftover Hamburger Stew Last?
Leftover Hamburger Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months! Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Stew?
Yes! Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables such as green beans, peas, or bell peppers. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
Is This Stew Gluten-Free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free, as some brands may add wheat.
