Hearty Hamburger Stew Comforting One-Pot Meal

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When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing like a warm bowl of Hamburger Stew. This hearty one-pot meal is simple to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy days, you’ll find all you need right in your kitchen. I’ll guide you through each step, share clever tips, and even offer tasty variations. Let’s dive into this comforting dish that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and Hearty: This stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make this dish.
  3. Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables and protein, this stew is both healthy and satisfying.
  4. Great for Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

List of required ingredients

To make hearty hamburger stew, gather these ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef

– 1 large onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 3 medium carrots, sliced

– 2 medium potatoes, diced

– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

– 4 cups beef broth

– 1 cup frozen peas

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Notes on ingredient substitutions

You can swap ground beef for other meats. Turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian option, use a meat substitute or lentils. If you do not have fresh garlic, garlic powder is a good choice. Canned tomatoes can be replaced with fresh ones if you prefer. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make it lighter.

Importance of quality ingredients

Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. The flavor of your stew shines through when you use good beef and fresh vegetables. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that dried ones can’t match. Quality ingredients help you create a meal that comforts and satisfies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the base (sautéing onions and garlic)

Start with a large pot. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 large diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and clear. Stir the mix often to prevent burning. This step builds a great flavor base for your stew.

Cooking the ground beef

Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes. The beef should turn brown and lose its pink color. If there’s extra fat, drain it out. This helps keep the stew from being greasy.

Adding vegetables and broth

Now, mix in 3 sliced carrots and 2 diced potatoes. Stir everything together for about 5 minutes. This helps the veggies start to soften. Then, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juice and 4 cups of beef broth. Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes. The potatoes and carrots should be tender when done. In the last few minutes, add 1 cup of frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to enhance flavor

To boost the taste of your stew, try adding fresh herbs. Fresh thyme or basil can make a big difference. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth. If you want more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. These small changes can make your stew shine.

Cooking time adjustments for different preferences

If you like soft veggies, stick to the 30-35 minutes of simmering. For crunchier carrots and potatoes, check them after 20 minutes. You can also cook the stew longer if you want deeper flavors. Just remember to keep an eye on the liquid level. You may need to add more broth or water if it gets too thick.

Recommended tools for cooking hamburger stew

Using the right tools makes cooking easier. A large pot or Dutch oven works best for even heat. A wooden spoon helps you mix the ingredients without scratching your pot. I also recommend a sharp knife for chopping the veggies. Lastly, have measuring cups on hand for the broth and seasonings. These tools make the process smooth and fun!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end of cooking can enhance the flavors of your stew and give it a vibrant finish.
  2. Brown the Meat: Take the extra time to properly brown the ground beef. This step adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the stew.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference, as broth and tomatoes can vary in saltiness.
  4. Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge for a delicious meal.

Variations

Vegetarian alternative

You can make a tasty vegetarian version of hamburger stew. Start by omitting the ground beef. Use one can of lentils instead. Lentils provide protein and a nice texture. Add more veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth. This alternative keeps the stew hearty and filling.

Different meat options

If you want to switch up the meat, turkey or chicken work well. Ground turkey has a mild flavor and is lean. Cook it the same way as you would with ground beef. Ground chicken also fits nicely in this stew. Just be sure to season it well. Each meat option gives a unique taste to the stew.

Adding spices or other vegetables

Feel free to play with spices and veggies. You can add paprika for a smoky flavor. Try cumin for a warm, earthy taste. Other veggies like green beans or corn can add color and crunch. Experimenting with flavors lets you make the stew your own. Adjust the spices to match your taste.

Storage Info

How to store leftovers

After you enjoy your hearty hamburger stew, let it cool down. Use a clean container with a tight lid. Pour the stew into the container and seal it. Store it in the fridge. The stew will stay fresh for about three to four days. Make sure to label the container with the date.

Freezing hamburger stew

If you want to keep the stew longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the stew cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal the bags tightly and label them. The stew can last in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating instructions

To reheat, take the container from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. For stove reheating, pour the stew into a pot. Heat it on medium-low, stirring often until hot. If you prefer the microwave, place it in a bowl. Heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Enjoy your warm, comforting meal!

FAQs

What is hamburger stew?

Hamburger stew is a warm, filling dish made with ground beef and veggies. It cooks in one pot, making it easy to prepare and clean up. The stew has a rich flavor from beef broth, tomatoes, and herbs. You can find carrots, potatoes, and peas in this hearty meal. Each bite is comforting and perfect for cold days.

Can I make hamburger stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make hamburger stew in a slow cooker. Start by browning the ground beef in a pan. Then, add it to your slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method lets the flavors blend nicely while you go about your day.

How long does hamburger stew last in the fridge?

Hamburger stew lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. Make sure it cools down before you put it in the fridge. This helps keep the stew fresh and tasty.

What to serve with hamburger stew?

You can serve hamburger stew with crusty bread or warm rolls. A side salad also pairs well for a fresh crunch. If you want something hearty, try serving it with rice or mashed potatoes. These sides complement the stew’s rich flavors and make your meal complete.

This blog covered the key parts of making hamburger stew. We discussed the needed ingredients and how to pick good ones. You learned step-by-step cooking, from prepping to serving. I shared tips to boost flavor and adjust cooking times. You also found variations to include different meats or make it vegetarian. Lastly, I emphasized storing leftovers properly.

Hamburger stew is easy to make and offers many options. Enjoy making your ow

To make hearty hamburger stew, gather these ingredients: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 large onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 3 medium carrots, sliced - 2 medium potatoes, diced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice - 4 cups beef broth - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) You can swap ground beef for other meats. Turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian option, use a meat substitute or lentils. If you do not have fresh garlic, garlic powder is a good choice. Canned tomatoes can be replaced with fresh ones if you prefer. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make it lighter. Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. The flavor of your stew shines through when you use good beef and fresh vegetables. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that dried ones can’t match. Quality ingredients help you create a meal that comforts and satisfies. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start with a large pot. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 large diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn soft and clear. Stir the mix often to prevent burning. This step builds a great flavor base for your stew. Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes. The beef should turn brown and lose its pink color. If there’s extra fat, drain it out. This helps keep the stew from being greasy. Now, mix in 3 sliced carrots and 2 diced potatoes. Stir everything together for about 5 minutes. This helps the veggies start to soften. Then, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juice and 4 cups of beef broth. Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes. The potatoes and carrots should be tender when done. In the last few minutes, add 1 cup of frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal! To boost the taste of your stew, try adding fresh herbs. Fresh thyme or basil can make a big difference. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth. If you want more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. These small changes can make your stew shine. If you like soft veggies, stick to the 30-35 minutes of simmering. For crunchier carrots and potatoes, check them after 20 minutes. You can also cook the stew longer if you want deeper flavors. Just remember to keep an eye on the liquid level. You may need to add more broth or water if it gets too thick. Using the right tools makes cooking easier. A large pot or Dutch oven works best for even heat. A wooden spoon helps you mix the ingredients without scratching your pot. I also recommend a sharp knife for chopping the veggies. Lastly, have measuring cups on hand for the broth and seasonings. These tools make the process smooth and fun! Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end of cooking can enhance the flavors of your stew and give it a vibrant finish. Brown the Meat: Take the extra time to properly brown the ground beef. This step adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the stew. Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your stew before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference, as broth and tomatoes can vary in saltiness. Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge for a delicious meal. {{image_2}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version of hamburger stew. Start by omitting the ground beef. Use one can of lentils instead. Lentils provide protein and a nice texture. Add more veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth. This alternative keeps the stew hearty and filling. If you want to switch up the meat, turkey or chicken work well. Ground turkey has a mild flavor and is lean. Cook it the same way as you would with ground beef. Ground chicken also fits nicely in this stew. Just be sure to season it well. Each meat option gives a unique taste to the stew. Feel free to play with spices and veggies. You can add paprika for a smoky flavor. Try cumin for a warm, earthy taste. Other veggies like green beans or corn can add color and crunch. Experimenting with flavors lets you make the stew your own. Adjust the spices to match your taste. After you enjoy your hearty hamburger stew, let it cool down. Use a clean container with a tight lid. Pour the stew into the container and seal it. Store it in the fridge. The stew will stay fresh for about three to four days. Make sure to label the container with the date. If you want to keep the stew longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the stew cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. Seal the bags tightly and label them. The stew can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, take the container from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. For stove reheating, pour the stew into a pot. Heat it on medium-low, stirring often until hot. If you prefer the microwave, place it in a bowl. Heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Enjoy your warm, comforting meal! Hamburger stew is a warm, filling dish made with ground beef and veggies. It cooks in one pot, making it easy to prepare and clean up. The stew has a rich flavor from beef broth, tomatoes, and herbs. You can find carrots, potatoes, and peas in this hearty meal. Each bite is comforting and perfect for cold days. Yes, you can make hamburger stew in a slow cooker. Start by browning the ground beef in a pan. Then, add it to your slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method lets the flavors blend nicely while you go about your day. Hamburger stew lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. Make sure it cools down before you put it in the fridge. This helps keep the stew fresh and tasty. You can serve hamburger stew with crusty bread or warm rolls. A side salad also pairs well for a fresh crunch. If you want something hearty, try serving it with rice or mashed potatoes. These sides complement the stew's rich flavors and make your meal complete. This blog covered the key parts of making hamburger stew. We discussed the needed ingredients and how to pick good ones. You learned step-by-step cooking, from prepping to serving. I shared tips to boost flavor and adjust cooking times. You also found variations to include different meats or make it vegetarian. Lastly, I emphasized storing leftovers properly. Hamburger stew is easy to make and offers many options. Enjoy making your own!

Hearty Hamburger Stew

A comforting and hearty stew made with ground beef, vegetables, and spices.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Stir in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, mixing everything together. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
  • Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
  • In the last few minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas and stir until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve the stew in large bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. Offer crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Keyword beef, comfort food, hearty, stew

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