Easy Hamburger Stew: A Hearty and Delicious Family Meal

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty stew. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, this Easy Hamburger Stew is the perfect choice. Created by Natasha Bull, this stew is thick, hearty, and made with simple, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this Hamburger Stew is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Stew

This Easy Hamburger Stew is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and tomato paste, so you likely already have most of the ingredients on hand.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and vegetables are affordable, making this stew a cost-effective meal option.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and tender chunks of potatoes and carrots.
• Easy to Make: With a total time of just 1 hour, this stew is quick to prepare and requires minimal effort.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this stew by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.

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Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Stew

To make this Easy Hamburger Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and beef.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory base to the stew.
• 3 sticks celery, chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• 1 pound lean ground beef: The star of the dish, providing protein and richness.
• 3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the stew.
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: Adds a rich, tangy flavor and helps create a thick base.
• 4 cups beef broth: Forms the liquid base of the stew. You can add more if needed.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the beef and vegetables.
• 2 Russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Adds heartiness and texture.
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Provides sweetness and color.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional): Adds a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
• Salt & pepper to taste: For seasoning.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Hamburger Stew

Follow these simple steps to make this delicious Easy Hamburger Stew:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Add the 1 pound lean ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned (about 8 minutes).

Step 4: Thicken the Stew

1. Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons flour over the beef and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often, to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Stir in the 6-ounce can of tomato paste until well combined.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the 4 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
2. Add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot.

Step 6: Simmer the Stew

1. Increase the heat to high and bring the stew to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer and cook, covered (with the lid slightly open), for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. If the stew becomes too thick, add more beef broth as needed. For a thicker stew, cook it longer with the lid off.

Step 7: Add the Peas and Season

1. Stir in the 1 cup frozen peas (if using) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
2. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.

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Tips for Making the Best Easy Hamburger Stew

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) works best for this recipe, as it reduces excess grease and keeps the stew from becoming too oily.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms to make the stew your own.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for longer. For a thinner stew, add more beef broth.
• Make It Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

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The History and Origins of Hamburger Stew

Hamburger stew, often referred to as “hamburger soup” or “beef stew,” is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when ground beef became widely available and affordable due to advancements in meat processing. This dish was born out of necessity, as families sought to create hearty, filling meals using inexpensive ingredients. Ground beef, being versatile and budget-friendly, became a staple in many households, and recipes like hamburger stew emerged as a way to stretch a small amount of meat into a satisfying meal for the whole family.

The concept of stew itself dates back centuries, with variations found in nearly every culture around the world. Stews were traditionally made by simmering meat and vegetables in a liquid, often over an open fire, to create a nourishing and warming dish. Hamburger stew is a modern twist on this age-old tradition, combining the convenience of ground beef with the heartiness of a traditional stew. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, and peas, making it a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Today, hamburger stew remains a beloved comfort food, especially during the colder months. Its simplicity and affordability have made it a go-to recipe for busy families, while its rich flavors and hearty texture continue to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, hamburger stew is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.

Why Hamburger Stew Is Perfect for Meal Prep

In today’s fast-paced world, meal prep has become an essential tool for saving time and ensuring healthy eating throughout the week. Easy Hamburger Stew is an ideal candidate for meal prep because it’s hearty, nutritious, and stores well. Here’s why this stew should be a staple in your meal prep routine:

1. Batch Cooking Made Easy: This recipe yields a large quantity, making it perfect for batch cooking. You can easily double or triple the ingredients to prepare enough stew for several meals. Simply divide the stew into individual portions and store them in airtight containers for quick grab-and-go meals.
2. Long Shelf Life: Hamburger stew stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeks when you don’t have time to cook. To reheat, simply thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein from the ground beef, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the potatoes, this stew is a well-rounded meal that keeps you full and energized. It’s a great way to ensure you’re getting a variety of nutrients without spending hours in the kitchen.
4. Versatile Serving Options: Hamburger stew can be enjoyed on its own or paired with different sides throughout the week. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a change of pace. You can also add a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
5. Time-Saving Convenience: By preparing a large batch of hamburger stew at the beginning of the week, you’ll save time on cooking and cleaning up later. It’s a stress-free way to ensure you always have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Hamburger Stew

This Easy Hamburger Stew is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few sides to make it even more satisfying:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the hearty stew.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the stew perfectly.

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Nutritional Information

This Easy Hamburger Stew is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Stew in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! To make this Easy Hamburger Stew in a slow cooker, follow these steps:

1. Brown the ground beef, onion, celery, and garlic in a skillet.
2. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients (except the peas).
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in the peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef and works well in this recipe.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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Final Thoughts

This Easy Hamburger Stew is a comforting, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a recipe that even beginner cooks can master. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and see why it’s become a favorite for so many families!