Hamburger Stew
Comforting and Hearty Hamburger Stew
There’s something undeniably comforting about a simmering pot of hamburger stew. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender pieces of meat and vibrant vegetables soaking in a flavorful broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I remember making this dish on chilly evenings, filling the home with an irresistible aroma that had everyone at the table before it was even served!
Why Make This Recipe
Every bite of hamburger stew comes with a hearty blend of flavors and nutrients that make it a standout meal. This dish is not only easy and quick to prepare, but it’s also budget-friendly, nutritious, and kid-approved. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even holiday gatherings.
“This hamburger stew is pure comfort food! The flavors meld together beautifully, and it makes the most satisfying dinner on a cold night.” — Emily R.
Preparing Hamburger Stew Recipe
Making hamburger stew is a straightforward process that yields robust flavors. You’ll start by browning the beef and vegetables in a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot, then let everything simmer until perfectly tender. This recipe takes about 45 minutes total, making it a fantastic choice for a quick weekday meal.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious hamburger stew:
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon crushed rosemary
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into small cubes
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1¼ cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ⅔ cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add your favorite vegetables like green beans or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- When the beef is about halfway browned, add the chopped onion, cooking until soft, around 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Lower the heat, then stir in minced garlic, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
- Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and can of fire-roasted tomatoes to the pot.
- In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth and tomato paste. Pour this mixture into the pot.
- Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Finally, add the frozen peas and cover, simmering until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This hamburger stew is best enjoyed hot right from the pot! Serve it in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. For an added flair, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s also delicious the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing leftovers is simple! Allow the stew to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. If you choose to freeze it, be sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should last up to three months. When reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed for moisture.
Tips for Success
- Browning the meat properly adds rich flavor to the stew. Don’t rush this step!
- For extra depth, consider sautéing the vegetables before adding in the meat.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, simply allow it to simmer uncovered for a bit longer, allowing the liquid to reduce.
Creative Twists
Feel free to customize your hamburger stew! You can experiment with different herbs and spices, like adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for richness. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.
Common Questions
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this stew gluten-free, simply ensure that all ingredients, especially the beef broth and tomato paste, are certified gluten-free.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas or other vegetables can be substituted; just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes about 45 minutes, which includes browning the meat, cooking the vegetables, and simmering the stew.
Feel free to embrace the flexibility of this hamburger stew recipe. It’s a canvas for flavors and ingredients that you can tailor to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs! Enjoy the comfort that comes with every bowl.
Hamburger Stew
Ingredients
Method
- In a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- When the beef is about halfway browned, add the chopped onion, cooking until soft, around 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Lower the heat, then stir in minced garlic, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
- Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and can of fire-roasted tomatoes to the pot.
- In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth and tomato paste. Pour this mixture into the pot.
- Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Finally, add the frozen peas and cover, simmering until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
