Hamburger Stew: A Bowl of Comfort for Chilly Evenings
There’s something about the first real chill of autumn that sends me straight to the stove, craving a meal that warms from the inside out. Last week, as the wind rattled our old farmhouse windows and the golden leaves swirled in the yard, I found myself digging through my grandmother’s recipe box—the one with the chipped enamel corners and faded ink. Tucked between her famous cinnamon rolls and Sunday pot roast was a humble, well-loved card simply labeled “Hamburger Stew.” One bite later, and I was transported back to her kitchen, where the scent of simmering beef and vegetables meant love was on the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why I Love Them)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) – The little bit of fat adds richness, and trust me, it’s worth it.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced – Sweet and caramelized, it’s the backbone of flavor here.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because no cozy stew is complete without garlic’s golden hug.
- 3 carrots, sliced into coins – They soften just enough to melt in your mouth.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – A subtle crunch and earthy note that balances the dish.
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade if you have it!) – The deeper the broth, the richer the stew.
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes – Their bright acidity lifts all the other flavors.
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed – I prefer Yukon Gold for their buttery texture.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Tiny leaves, mighty flavor—it’s the secret whisper in every bite.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Season as you go; your future self will thank you.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – A splash of umami magic.
- 1 bay leaf – Let it steep like a quiet promise of depth.
Let’s Make It Together: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef with Love
In your favorite heavy-bottomed pot (I use my enameled cast iron), crumble the ground beef over medium heat. Let it sizzle undisturbed for a minute—this builds those delicious browned bits at the bottom. Stir in the onions and garlic, and sigh as that first savory aroma fills the kitchen. Drain any excess fat if needed, but leave just enough to coat the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add the carrots and celery, stirring gently to let them mingle with the beef. This is where patience pays off: let them soften just until the carrots glisten, about 5 minutes. As they cook, sprinkle in the thyme—its fragrance will make your stomach growl in anticipation.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pot (that’s flavor gold!). Add the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let it whisper to itself for 15 minutes while you cube the potatoes.
Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
This hamburger stew is wonderfully adaptable to your tastes and what you have on hand. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Meat Swap: Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully if you prefer a lighter option.
- Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end for a creamy twist.
- Slow Cooker Friendly: Brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in your crockpot on low for 6-8 hours.
What to Serve With Hamburger Stew
This hearty stew stands well on its own, but these pairings make it even better:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping
- A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette
- Buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes
- Cornbread muffins for a Southern touch
Storage and Reheating Tips
Like many stews, this one tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors meld beautifully when made a day ahead. Just reheat gently before serving.
What if I don’t have tomato paste?
You can substitute 1/2 cup of tomato sauce or even ketchup in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly sweeter.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, as written! Just be sure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free brands if that’s a concern.
Can I add beans to this stew?
Certainly! Kidney beans or cannellini beans would be delicious additions for extra protein and fiber.
A Bowl Full of Comfort
There’s something magical about how simple ingredients come together to create such soul-warming goodness. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd on a chilly evening or packing leftovers for lunch, this hamburger stew is like a cozy hug in bowl form. The savory aroma filling your kitchen, the tender bites of vegetables, the rich broth – it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone gather around the table with happy anticipation. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home, creating warm memories one delicious spoonful at a time.
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Hamburger Stew
Description
A hearty and comforting stew made with ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Add the potatoes, carrots, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings if needed and serve hot.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
