Hamburger Stew

Hamburger stew is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy families and those looking to create a nutritious and budget-friendly meal. Packed with lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and rich flavors, this stew is a delicious way to warm up on cold days. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that can be made ahead, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Stew Recipe

This hamburger stew recipe is simple, full of nutritious vegetables, and comes together with minimal effort. It’s not only easy to prepare but also very customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s taste. The combination of lean ground beef and fresh vegetables makes this a wholesome dish that can be served on its own or paired with a side of crusty bread. Plus, it’s ideal for batch cooking and can be stored for leftovers.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hamburger Stew

Here’s everything you need to make this delicious hamburger stew:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  This helps sauté the vegetables and brown the beef.
• 1 medium onion, chopped
  Onions add sweetness and depth of flavor to the stew.
• 3 sticks celery, chopped
  Celery provides a crunchy texture and freshness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic enhances the overall flavor and adds a savory kick.
• 1 pound lean ground beef
  Using lean beef makes the dish healthier without sacrificing taste.
• 3 tablespoons flour
  The flour thickens the stew and gives it a hearty consistency.
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
  Tomato paste provides a rich, concentrated flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth
  Adds depth and creates the base for the stew. You may need more to adjust consistency.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  Adds umami and enhances the beefy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  A blend of herbs that adds aromatic and savory notes to the stew.
• 2 Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  Potatoes provide substance and help thicken the stew.
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  Carrots add sweetness and balance the other flavors.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  Adds color and a slight sweetness if you want to include them.
• Salt & pepper, to taste
  Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors in the stew.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Hamburger Stew

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious hamburger stew that will impress your family:

1. Sauté the vegetables
   Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step builds the flavor foundation of the stew.
2. Add the garlic
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as it can turn bitter.
3. Brown the ground beef
   Add the lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Incorporate the flour and tomato paste
   Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often. This helps thicken the stew. Next, stir in the tomato paste, ensuring everything is well-coated.
5. Add the broth and seasonings
   Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well. Then, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer the stew
   Once boiling, reduce the heat to a rapid simmer. Cover the pot, leaving the lid slightly open to allow steam to escape. Cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and carrots are tender. If the stew gets too thick, add more broth. If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook with the lid off for a bit longer.
7. Add the peas and adjust seasoning
   In the final minutes, stir in the frozen peas (if using) and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.

Key Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Stew

• Browning the beef: Ensure you thoroughly brown the beef for added depth and richness.
• Adjusting consistency: If your stew becomes too thick, add a little extra broth. If it’s too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
• Flavor enhancement: Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce boosts the umami flavor, making the stew even more savory.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hamburger Stew

• Overcooking the vegetables: Avoid cooking the vegetables too long, or they will lose their texture and become mushy.
• Not seasoning enough: The flavors in stew develop over time, so taste and adjust the seasoning, especially before serving.
• Not letting the stew simmer long enough: Allowing the stew to simmer for at least 30 minutes ensures the flavors meld and the vegetables cook through properly.

Variations and Swaps for Hamburger Stew

• Protein swaps: If you want to switch up the protein, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
• Extra vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: For a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For an inviting presentation, ladle the hamburger stew into deep bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal. For a heartier option, pair it with mashed potatoes or rice.

How to Store and Reheat Hamburger Stew

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This stew freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit more broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency.

FAQs About Hamburger Stew

Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! Hamburger stew is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

How do I make the stew thicker?
If your stew isn’t as thick as you’d like, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also add an extra tablespoon of flour when cooking the beef.

Can I freeze hamburger stew?
Yes, this stew freezes very well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer.

Conclusion

Hamburger stew is a perfect dish for anyone looking for a hearty, filling, and easy-to-make meal. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Try it out, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more comforting meal ideas!

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