Hamburger Stew Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty dish that warms you from the inside out, Hamburger Stew is exactly what you need. This classic, cozy stew combines tender ground beef with vibrant vegetables and a rich, savory broth that hugs every bite with flavor. It’s a fantastic one-pot meal that’s both simple to prepare and endlessly satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without fuss. The beauty of Hamburger Stew is how effortlessly all the ingredients come together to create a timeless dish that feels like a warm kitchen hug every time you eat it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step to making a fantastic Hamburger Stew. Each item plays an essential role, whether it’s the aromatic onion and celery for depth, the hearty potatoes and carrots for texture, or the lean ground beef for that rich meaty flavor. Together, they create layers of taste and a comforting stew that everyone will love.

• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding a light, fruity flavor to the base.
• Medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a savory foundation to the stew.
• Celery sticks, chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and freshness that balances the dish.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Packs in an aromatic punch that brings everything together.
• Lean ground beef: The heart of the stew, offering rich, meaty goodness that fills you up.
• Flour: Helps thicken the stew so the broth clings to every bite.
• Tomato paste: Deepens the color and adds a tangy intensity.
• Beef broth: The flavorful liquid base that delivers warmth and depth.
• Worcestershire sauce: Elevates the umami with a savory, slightly sweet kick.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the stew with complexity.
• Russet potatoes, peeled and diced: Absorb flavor and help create a satisfying, hearty texture.
• Carrots, peeled and sliced: Add natural sweetness and color contrast.
• Frozen peas (optional): A pop of color and freshness to brighten the stew.
• Salt & pepper: Essential to balance and bring out the full flavors of the dish.

How to Make Hamburger Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and celery and cook them until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base that will elevate your stew from simple to spectacular.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Brown the Beef

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—this only takes about 30 seconds to avoid any bitterness. Then, add the lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook the beef thoroughly until it’s nicely browned, about 8 minutes, which creates that irresistible savory depth essential for Hamburger Stew.

Step 3: Thicken the Stew with Flour and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the flour over the browned beef and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. This will gently toast the flour, preventing a raw taste while thickening the broth later. Then, mix in the tomato paste, which adds a beautiful rich red color and a tangy undertone that makes this stew uniquely delicious.

Step 4: Add Broth, Seasonings, and Vegetables

Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine these flavorful liquids with your meat mixture. Now add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Turn the heat up to bring the stew to a boil before reducing it to a steady simmer. Let everything cook together with the lid slightly ajar for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots turn tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in frozen peas for a bright pop of color and added texture, then season the stew generously with salt and pepper to taste. If you want your Hamburger Stew thinner or thicker, adjust by adding more broth or simmering uncovered to reduce the liquid further. This flexibility makes the dish perfect for every appetite.

How to Serve Hamburger Stew

Garnishes

To really make your Hamburger Stew pop, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese also adds a creamy, indulgent finish that pairs beautifully with the rich beef and vegetables.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the heartiness without overpowering the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Hamburger Stew in rustic bread bowls for a fun, edible presentation that impresses at family dinners or casual gatherings. For a twist, ladle it over steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that savory goodness in a fresh way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hamburger Stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had overnight to deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient and comforting meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Hamburger Stew on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of broth or water to refresh the consistency. For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even temperature.

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables in Hamburger Stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add veggies like green beans, corn, or bell peppers based on your preferences or what’s in season. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so everything is tender but not mushy.

Is it possible to make Hamburger Stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce or a little bit of balsamic vinegar can provide a similar savory depth. Adjust the amount based on taste to avoid overpowering the stew.

Can I make this Hamburger Stew gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Just mix it with a little cold water before adding to avoid clumps.

How do I know when Hamburger Stew is done?

When the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender and the flavors have melded after simmering, your stew is ready. The broth should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still saucy enough to enjoy as a stew.

Final Thoughts

Hamburger Stew is one of those dishes that feels both familiar and special in every bite—easy to make but impossible to forget. It’s incredible how simple ingredients come together to create such a soulful meal that nourishes body and spirit. If you haven’t made this dish before, now is the perfect time to dive in and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Trust me, Hamburger Stew will quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

Print