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When the weather turns chilly and you need something warm and comforting, hamburger stew is the perfect choice. This classic recipe has stood the test of time, gracing tables for generations with its hearty, flavorful, and economical ingredients.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this one-pot wonder delivers satisfaction without breaking the bank.

bowl of hamburger stew with a slice of sourdough bread

Table of Contents

Why Hamburger Stew is a Beloved Classic

Hamburger stew has a well-earned spot in many home cooks’ recipe rotations. Its popularity stems from its simplicity, versatility, and crowd-pleasing flavor.

With ground beef as the star ingredient, it’s an affordable meal that feels both hearty and indulgent. Add a mix of tender vegetables and a savory broth, and you’ve got a dish that warms the heart and the stomach.

This recipe is also perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s easy to adjust for dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand in the pantry.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Hamburger Stew

Getting the most out of your hamburger stew doesn’t require culinary expertise, but a few simple tips can take it to the next level:

Browning the Beef: Take the time to properly brown the ground beef before adding other ingredients. This step builds depth of flavor.
Layering the Flavors: Sauté your onions and garlic in the same pot to absorb all those tasty browned bits left from the beef.
Thickening the Broth: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

With these small adjustments, you’ll elevate your stew from good to unforgettable.

two white bowls filled hamburger stew, overhead view

Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Stew

Hamburger stew is a meal on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a few side dishes and toppings. Here are some ideas to try:

Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs nicely with the stew’s richness.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of indulgence.

These additions create a full, satisfying meal that feels restaurant-quality right in your home kitchen.

Recipe Variations to Suit Your Taste

What’s great about hamburger stew is how adaptable it is. Here are a few creative twists you can try:

Southwestern Style: Add corn, black beans, and a dash of chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist.
Low-Carb Option: Swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets to create a keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Substitute: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth for a meatless take.

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create a version that fits your preferences or pantry.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Hamburger stew stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Place cooled stew in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the texture.

These tips ensure you’ll enjoy every last spoonful, even if you’re eating it days later.

Hearty and Budget-Friendly Hamburger Stew Recipe

Recipe by Jessie

Course: MainDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

This Hamburger Stew Recipe is a comforting one-pot meal filled with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping, it’s easy to make and packed with hearty ingredients the whole family will love.

Ingredients

1.5 lb ground beef
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 c beef broth
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
salt and ground black pepper, to taste
1 c frozen peas
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the sliced carrots and celery; cook for about 5 minutes.
Add the diced potatoes, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
Pour in the beef broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in the tomato paste until well combined. If using, add the Worcestershire sauce for enhanced flavor.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy hot.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Hamburger stew is the ultimate combination of comfort, flavor, and practicality. It’s affordable, easy to make, and versatile enough to suit any household. By following the tips and variations above, you’ll have a dish that’s both familiar and fresh.

Gather your ingredients, grab a large pot, and get ready to fill your home with the delicious aroma of this timeless classic.

Before you leave, make sure to check out our some of our other classic comfort recipes!

pot of hamburger stew in an enamel pot, overhead view

bowl of hamburger stew in brown ceramic bowl, steaming, with side of artisan bread

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