Ingredients
- 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.
Instructions
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner