Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe : The Best One-Pot Comfort Food

If you’re in search of a satisfying, comforting, and budget-friendly dinner, this Hamburger Stew recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a warm and hearty one-pot meal loaded with ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. This easy beef stew is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever you need a dish that hits the spot without requiring too much effort.

This stew is perfect for beginner cooks, families, or anyone who wants a nostalgic homemade meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With flexible ingredients and a simple prep process, it’s no wonder hamburger stew is such a beloved classic.

Whether you’re pairing it with cheddar bay biscuits, cottage cheese flatbread, or even garlic butter corn with melty cheese, this stew is a guaranteed hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Simple Homemade Stew Recipe

This simple homemade stew recipe is everything you want in a comforting dinner. It’s:

• Made with affordable, everyday ingredients
• One-pot for easy cleanup
• Packed with flavor from slow-simmered broth and herbs
• Hearty enough to be served on its own
• Great for batch cooking and meal prep

If you’re looking for other cozy meal ideas, you might also love this Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew or Pumpkin Chicken Chili for fun seasonal spins.

Ingredients for Meat Stew Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful meat stew:

• 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes, including juices
• 1 (5.5 oz) can tomato paste
• 3 cups (750ml) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

This ground beef stew uses easy-to-find ingredients and packs tons of flavor in every bite.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these tools:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

That’s all you need to bring this comforting dish to life. If you enjoy one-pot recipes, you might also enjoy these Crockpot Fajitas or Slow Cooker Chicken Stew.

How to Make This Basic Beef Stew Step-by-Step

This basic beef stew is straightforward and quick. Here’s how to make it:

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Now add the carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and the flavors are well blended.

Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with fresh parsley on top.

This stew pairs well with Cheesy Zucchini Bread or Pumpkin Twists for a fall-inspired dinner.

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Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Stew Recipes

Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease. If using regular ground beef, be sure to drain the fat well after browning.

Chop all vegetables uniformly. This helps ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture in each bite.

Don’t rush the simmering step. Low and slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of depth and warmth, if you like a bolder stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Ground Beef Stews

Don’t skip browning the meat. This caramelizes the beef and adds essential flavor.

Avoid overcooking the vegetables. You want them tender but not mushy.

Be sure to taste before serving. Depending on your broth and tomato products, you might need to adjust seasoning.

Don’t overcrowd the pot with too much liquid or extra ingredients. This can dilute the flavors.

Delicious Variations and Ingredient Swaps

This ground beef stew is super versatile. Try these easy swaps:

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add a can of drained kidney or black beans for extra fiber and protein.
Try swapping regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness.
Stir in kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes for added nutrients.
For a low-carb version, substitute diced cauliflower or zucchini.

For more healthy twists, check out this Healthy Zucchini Beef Stir Fry or Vegetable Casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve the stew in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful vegetables. Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a little shredded cheddar cheese.

Add a slice of crusty bread like Garlic Parmesan Focaccia on the side to mop up the flavorful broth.

For a cozy dessert, follow up with Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Leftovers

Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, it keeps for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day!

To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen if necessary.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Stew

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely. Frozen peas, corn, or mixed veggies can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your beef broth is gluten-free. Always check labels.

Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the sautéing stage for a bit of heat.

What goes well with this stew?
Try serving it with Pumpkin Cornbread, Apple Crisp with Oatmeal, or even Cucumber Dill Salad for a refreshing contrast.

Final Thoughts on This One-Pot Easy Beef Stew Recipe

This Hamburger Stew is everything a comfort meal should be: warm, nourishing, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. It’s a back-pocket recipe you’ll turn to over and over again—especially when the weather gets chilly or life gets busy.

With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this stew fits perfectly into your weekly meal rotation. It’s loved by kids and adults alike, and it’s great for leftovers or freezer meals.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also like our cozy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal or hearty Sweet Chili Meatballs.

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