Hamburger Stew

Hamburger Stew

Hamburger stew is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you up on a chilly day. It combines ground beef and a medley of vegetables in a savory broth, making it a complete meal in one pot. This easy-to-make stew is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

This hamburger stew is not only tasty but also very simple to prepare. It uses ingredients you likely already have at home, making it both economical and convenient. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into your meal, which is especially helpful for picky eaters. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this stew will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.

How to Make Hamburger Stew

Making hamburger stew is straightforward, and you can have it ready in about an hour. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, green beans)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Directions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, and enjoy the comfort of your delicious hamburger stew.

How to Serve Hamburger Stew

Serve hamburger stew hot in a bowl. It goes well with crusty bread or over rice. You could also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added flavor. This stew is great for sharing, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch for family gatherings or potlucks!

How to Store Hamburger Stew

Leftover hamburger stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it longer, you can freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat it in a pot on the stove.

Tips to Make Hamburger Stew

• If you like your stew thicker, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) towards the end of cooking.
• Customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Bell peppers and potatoes are great additions.
• Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce; it adds depth to the flavor of the stew.

Variation

For a slightly different flavor, you can add a splash of red wine or use ground turkey instead of beef. You can also try adding some chili powder for a bit of spice, or even switching out the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning for a fun twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great in hamburger stew! Just add them directly to the pot without thawing.

2. Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare hamburger stew ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat.