Hamburger Stew

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then this Hamburger Stew is just what you need! It’s one of those cozy meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without a fuss. I love how it brings the family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over hearty servings of this stew. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that uses everyday ingredients, making it a staple in our home.

This Hamburger Stew is special not just for its taste but also for its simplicity. It’s adaptable enough to suit various occasions, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a last-minute dinner with friends. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful stew simmering away on your stove.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep or leftovers!
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and oh-so-delicious! You probably have most of them already in your pantry. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this hearty Hamburger Stew:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth (+ more if needed)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 Russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
• 4 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Variations

What I love about this Hamburger Stew is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt the recipe based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some green beans or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of beef, try using ground turkey or chicken instead!
• Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a little kick, add some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Go Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.

How to Make Hamburger Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding the olive oil to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté these fragrant veggies for about 5–7 minutes until they soften up—this helps build a flavor base for your stew!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Garlic adds depth to the dish, enhancing all those delicious flavors we’re building.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Now, add the lean ground beef to the pot. Use your spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s nicely browned (about 8 minutes). Browning the meat adds richness and makes every bite satisfying.

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute or two while stirring often. This step helps thicken our stew later on, giving it that perfect hearty texture we all love.

Step 5: Stir in Tomato Paste

Next up is adding that vibrant tomato paste! Stir it into the meat mixture until combined—this gives our stew its beautiful color and rich flavor.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Now comes the fun part! Pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, diced potatoes, and sliced carrots. Increase the heat to high until everything reaches a boil, then reduce it back down to a rapid simmer. Cover with a lid slightly ajar and let it cook for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally while letting those flavors meld together!

Step 7: Finish with Peas

Finally, stir in those frozen peas right before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this final touch brightens everything up! Enjoy each warm bowl of Hamburger Stew with loved ones gathered around—a meal made with love!

Pro Tips for Making Hamburger Stew

Making the perfect hamburger stew is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your stew turns out delicious every time!

• Choose quality ground beef: Using lean ground beef not only reduces excess fat but also adds a rich flavor to your stew.

• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking time to properly sauté the onions and celery brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your stew.

• Adjust the thickness: If your stew becomes too thick, simply add more broth! For a thicker consistency, remove the lid during the last few minutes of cooking to let some moisture evaporate.

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as green beans or corn, to boost nutrition and flavor.

• Let it rest: Allowing your stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it thicken slightly and lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Hamburger Stew

Serving hamburger stew is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly evening. The hearty nature of this dish makes it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of grated cheese can give your stew a creamy finish that melts beautifully into each bowl.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of the stew.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables make a great side dish that complements the flavors in your hamburger stew while providing extra nutrients.
• Rice or quinoa: Serving your stew over rice or quinoa can turn it into a filling meal that’s packed with fiber and protein.

Enjoy this comforting hamburger stew with these serving suggestions, and watch as it quickly becomes a family favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hamburger Stew is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch and have it ready to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious stew:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stew in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Portion out the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and name of the dish.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Hamburger Stew recipe that might help you out!

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in Hamburger Stew?

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just remember that turkey may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it while sautéing.

How can I make my Hamburger Stew thicker?

To thicken your Hamburger Stew, you can let it simmer uncovered for longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the stew and cook until thickened.

Can I make Hamburger Stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Hamburger Stew is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. It even tastes better after the flavors have melded together after sitting in the fridge.

What sides pair well with Hamburger Stew?

Some great sides include crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even some buttery cornbread. They complement the hearty nature of the stew beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Hamburger Stew recipe as comforting and enjoyable as I do! It’s not just about filling your stomach; it’s also about sharing warmth and love with family and friends around the dinner table. Enjoy making this hearty dish, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite veggies or spices. Happy cooking!