Hamburger Stew Recipe

Oh boy, have you ever had one of those days where you just need a big, warm bowl of comfort food? That’s where my Hamburger Stew comes in. It’s cozy, hearty, and crazy easy to make!

This stew is like a big hug in a bowl. Juicy ground beef, tender veggies, and a rich, savory broth—yep, it’s as good as it sounds. Plus, you only need one pot, which means less cleanup (yes, please!).

The best part? It’s budget-friendly, super filling, and tastes even better the next day. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or when you just need something homemade and delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! This hamburger stew is about to become your new favorite comfort meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich & Hearty: Packed with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful broth.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
• Customizable: Add more vegetables, swap seasonings, or make it spicier to fit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients for a satisfying family meal.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings

This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for a family meal. Need more? Simply double the ingredients.

Difficulty Level

Beginner-friendly! Easy enough for novice cooks while delivering a flavorful result.

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare this comforting hamburger stew, gather the following tools:

• Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot – Ideal for cooking the stew evenly.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Helps break up the beef and stir ingredients.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures precise ingredient amounts.
• Ladle – Makes serving easier.

Ingredients for Hamburger Stew

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together:

• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and adding a rich, smooth texture.
• Ground Beef – The main protein, adding deep, savory flavor.
• Onion – Provides a natural sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Garlic – Enhances the flavor with a warm, robust taste.
• Carrots – Adds a slight sweetness and texture to balance the stew.
• Potatoes – Gives heartiness and helps thicken the stew.
• Coconut Aminos or Soy Sauce – Deepens the umami richness.
• Dried Oregano – Adds an earthy, Mediterranean touch.
• Dried Parsley – Brightens the dish with a subtle herbal note.
• Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor with a mild kick.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Brings a complex, tangy depth.
• Petite Diced Tomatoes – Provides a rich tomato base with natural sweetness.
• Beef Broth – The liquid base, packed with flavor.
• Cornstarch (Optional) – Helps thicken the stew if desired.
• Water – Helps balance the broth’s consistency.
• Frozen Peas – Adds a pop of color and sweetness at the end.

Variations for Hamburger Stew

This recipe is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions or enhancements. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Add More Vegetables: Bell peppers, celery, zucchini, or green beans can boost the nutritional value.
• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat as a lighter alternative.
• Thicker Stew: If you prefer a thicker texture, mash some of the potatoes or add extra cornstarch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or chopped turnips.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, velvety texture.

How to Make Hamburger Stew (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly hearty and flavorful stew.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 ½ pounds of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

4. Add 1 cup of chopped onion and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the beef.
5. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

6. Stir in 2 cups of chopped carrots and 2 cups of diced potatoes.
7. Pour in 1 tablespoon of coconut aminos or soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
8. Stir well to evenly coat the vegetables with seasoning.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

9. Pour in 1 (28-ounce) can of petite diced tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth.
10. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
11. Let it simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

12. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water in a small bowl until smooth.
13. Slowly stir this slurry into the simmering stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the stew thickens.

Step 6: Add Peas and Final Touches

14. Stir in ¾ cup of frozen peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
15. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

16. Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
17. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Hamburger Stew

This hearty stew is comforting on its own but pairs well with different sides and toppings to enhance the meal:

Best Sides to Serve With Hamburger Stew

• Crusty Bread: Serve with toasted baguette slices, garlic bread, or cornbread to soak up the broth.
• Rice or Quinoa: A great option for extra texture and to make the meal more filling.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Pair with a side of roasted or steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrition.
• Side Salad: A fresh garden or Caesar salad balances out the richness of the stew.

Garnish Ideas for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Parsley or Chopped Green Onions: Adds a bright, herby touch.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Parmesan melts beautifully into the stew.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds a creamy tang.
• Crushed Crackers or Croutons: For added crunch and texture.

Storing and Reheating Hamburger Stew

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled stew in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Store for up to 3 months. Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Pour stew into a pot and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Frozen Stew: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Lean Ground Beef: An 85/15 or 90/10 ratio ensures a rich flavor without excessive grease. If using fattier beef, drain excess fat after browning.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Uniformly chopped potatoes and carrots ensure even cooking.
• Simmer for Depth of Flavor: Letting the stew simmer longer allows the flavors to develop fully.
• Add Peas Last: This keeps them vibrant and prevents overcooking.
• Adjust Thickness: If the stew is too thick, add more broth. If it’s too thin, mash some potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
• Flavor Boost: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the depth of flavor.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	320-350 kcal
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	5g
Sugars	7g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	55mg
Sodium	680mg
Vitamin A	100% DV
Vitamin C	40% DV
Iron	20% DV

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.