Hamburger Stew

This hamburger stew recipe is thick, hearty, and easy to make! It’s a delicious family meal that uses inexpensive everyday ingredients. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this stew provides comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Vegetables & Aromatics
• Meat & Base
• Seasoning & Extras
• How to Make Hamburger Stew
• Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 2: Add Garlic
• Step 3: Brown the Beef
• Step 4: Incorporate Flour
• Step 5: Mix in Tomato Paste
• Step 6: Add Broth and Vegetables
• Step 7: Simmer
• Step 8: Final Touches
• How to Serve Hamburger Stew
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Top with Cheese
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• Use Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
• Pair with Rice or Quinoa
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Hamburger Stew
• Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Stew
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hamburger Stew
• Reheating Hamburger Stew
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Hamburger Stew?
• Can I Customize My Hamburger Stew?
• How Long Does Hamburger Stew Last?
• Is Hamburger Stew Healthy?
• What Should I Serve with Hamburger Stew?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth creates a warm, satisfying meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the stew by adding your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients means you can enjoy this hearty dish without breaking the bank.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves six people, making it great for family dinners or meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking the stew evenly while allowing enough space for all the ingredients.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

This hamburger stew recipe is thick, hearty, and easy to make! It’s a delicious family meal that uses inexpensive everyday ingredients.

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 sticks celery (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Meat & Base

• 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

Seasoning & Extras

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 Russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
• 4 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Hamburger Stew

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Add the oil, onion, and celery to a soup pot. Sauté over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the beef to the pot. Cook while breaking it up with your spoon until it’s browned, about 8 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to combine with the beef mixture.

Step 5: Mix in Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste until well mixed with the other ingredients.

Step 6: Add Broth and Vegetables

Pour in the broth along with Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, potatoes, and carrots. Increase heat to high and bring it to a boil.

Step 7: Simmer

Reduce heat to a rapid simmer. Cook covered (with lid slightly open), stirring occasionally for at least 30 minutes until potatoes and carrots are tender. Add more broth if needed; cook longer with lid off if you prefer a thicker stew.

Step 8: Final Touches

Stir in frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Hamburger Stew!

How to Serve Hamburger Stew

Serving hamburger stew is simple and can be customized to suit your family’s preferences. This hearty dish can be paired with various sides and toppings to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad complements the rich flavors of hamburger stew. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for freshness.

Top with Cheese

• Grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can be sprinkled on top of each bowl before serving. It adds a creamy texture that melts beautifully.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread or a warm roll is perfect for dipping into the stew. Consider garlic bread for an extra flavor boost.

Use Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can add a tangy contrast to the stew’s richness. It also makes for an attractive garnish.

Pair with Rice or Quinoa

• Serving hamburger stew over a bed of rice or quinoa provides an additional source of fiber and helps soak up the delicious broth.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness to each serving, enhancing the overall presentation.

How to Perfect Hamburger Stew

To achieve the best flavors in your hamburger stew, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the taste and texture of your stew, making it more vibrant.
• Brown the meat well: Properly browning the ground beef adds depth and richness to the flavor profile of your stew.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Add salt and pepper little by little to avoid over-seasoning.
• Let it simmer longer: Allowing the stew to simmer helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a more delicious dish.
• Add vegetables towards the end: If you prefer your veggies with some crunch, add them later in the cooking process.
• Consider different proteins: While this recipe uses ground beef, experimenting with ground turkey or chicken can create lighter variations.

Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Stew

Pairing side dishes with hamburger stew can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A popular choice, this savory bread pairs perfectly with hearty stews. Toast slices with butter and minced garlic for added flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of hamburger stew.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutritional value. Toss them in olive oil and herbs before baking.
4. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives as a filling complement to your stew.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances out savory dishes like hamburger stew. Bake it in muffin tins for easy serving!
6. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds texture and a bit of tang that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of hamburger stew.
7. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans keep things simple yet nutritious, making them an excellent side choice.
8. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting addition that can soak up the juices from the stew wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making hamburger stew can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the ground beef well can lead to a less flavorful stew. Take your time and cook it until it’s nicely browned.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much broth can make your stew watery. Start with the recommended amount, and adjust as it cooks if needed.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Add sturdier veggies like potatoes earlier, and softer ones like peas later.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can result in bland stew. Always taste before serving and add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Rushing the cooking process can prevent flavors from developing. Allow the stew to simmer adequately for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Hamburger stew will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hamburger Stew

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It keeps well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hamburger Stew

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the stew with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about hamburger stew that may help you enhance your cooking experience.

What is Hamburger Stew?

Hamburger stew is a hearty dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and broth. It’s perfect for family meals and easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.

Can I Customize My Hamburger Stew?

Absolutely! You can add other veggies like bell peppers or corn. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist!

How Long Does Hamburger Stew Last?

When stored properly, hamburger stew lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Is Hamburger Stew Healthy?

Yes! It contains lean ground beef, various vegetables, and is relatively low in calories. It’s a balanced meal option when served with whole grain bread or rice.

What Should I Serve with Hamburger Stew?

Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a filling meal. A side salad also complements this dish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

This hamburger stew recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or seasonings based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy family dinners!