Hamburger Stew

There is something incredibly comforting about a bowl of warm, rich, and hearty hamburger stew. I remember my grandmother making a similar dish on cold evenings, filling the house with the savory aroma of browned beef and simmering vegetables. It was simple, affordable, and always satisfying. This hamburger stew is a modern take on that nostalgic meal, designed for beginner cooks who want to make a flavorful, budget-friendly dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe is perfect for those new to cooking. It requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for the whole family.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Beginner-friendly: Simple steps with no complicated techniques.
• One-pot meal: Less cleanup, more convenience.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and hearty potatoes.
• Customizable: Can be adapted with different vegetables, seasonings, or protein choices.

Ingredients and Preparation

Each ingredient in this stew plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: The heart of the stew, providing rich, meaty flavor. Using lean beef keeps the dish from being too greasy.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics, adding depth to the dish.
• Onion and celery: These vegetables form the flavorful base of the stew. Onion adds sweetness, while celery brings a slight bitterness that balances the richness.
• Garlic: A small but powerful ingredient that enhances the overall taste with its warm, aromatic notes.
• Flour: This helps to thicken the stew, giving it a rich and hearty consistency.
• Tomato paste: Adds a deep umami flavor and slight acidity, balancing the dish.
• Beef broth: The key liquid component that adds depth and brings everything together.
• Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that enhances the beefy taste and adds complexity.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that gives a subtle herbal flavor.
• Potatoes: These provide substance and help make the dish extra filling. Russet potatoes work well due to their ability to hold their shape.
• Carrots: Add a touch of natural sweetness and color to the stew.
• Frozen peas (optional): A quick and easy way to add extra vegetables.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian take (replace beef with lentils or mushrooms).
• Try sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for added natural sweetness and fiber.
• Add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an even fresher taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, stirring occasionally until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Cook until the beef is fully browned, about 8 minutes.

Step 3: Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This step helps to remove any raw flour taste and begins the thickening process. Stir in the tomato paste for extra depth of flavor.

Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Stir everything together and increase the heat to bring the stew to a boil.

Step 5: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly open and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Stir in the frozen peas and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, add a little extra broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce.

Step 7: Serve the stew hot and enjoy its comforting, hearty goodness.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to tell if the beef is cooked: The beef should be fully browned with no pink spots remaining.
• How to avoid overcooked vegetables: Cut potatoes and carrots into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. If they become too soft, reduce cooking time in the future.
• Fixing a thin stew: Simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
• Fixing a thick stew: Add a splash of beef broth to loosen the consistency.
• Prepping ahead: Chop the vegetables in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for quick cooking.
• Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will develop even more the next day.

Serving Suggestions

• With bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful broth.
• With a salad: A simple side salad with a light dressing can balance the richness of the stew.
• With rice or noodles: For a heartier meal, serve the stew over steamed rice or egg noodles.

Conclusion

This easy hamburger stew recipe is a perfect introduction to home cooking for beginners. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly forgiving, making it ideal for experimenting with different ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just yourself, this dish delivers warmth and comfort with every bite.

I’d love to hear how your stew turned out! Leave a comment below and share any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Hamburger Stew

More Relevant Recipes

• Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
• Salmon Patties with Homemade Tartar Sauce (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 190 Reviews )

Print