Ground Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich broth into a warming meal that’s perfect for chilly nights. This recipe combines the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef with a medley of nutritious vegetables, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture. The appeal of this stew lies not only in its satisfying flavor but also in its simplicity, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Ground Beef Stew for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The blend of spices and fresh vegetables offers a depth of taste that is both comforting and satisfying. With a quick browning of the beef and minimal chopping required, this stew comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those with hectic schedules. Additionally, it fits well into a balanced diet, providing protein from the beef, fiber from the vegetables, and a delicious way to enjoy a wholesome meal without any fuss.
Tips and Tricks
- Browning the Beef: Take the time to brown the ground beef properly. This step enhances the flavor of the stew significantly. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end of cooking can brighten up the flavors. Dried herbs can be used, but fresh offers a more vibrant taste.
- Add a Splash of Acid: A teaspoon of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice added at the end can elevate the flavors and balance the richness of the stew.
- Thickening the Stew: For a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering stew until desired thickness is reached.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy cooks, this Ground Beef Stew can be partially prepared in advance. Chop vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. You can also brown the beef and store it in an airtight container. The stew can be made entirely ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure to cool it completely before freezing in airtight containers.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth to keep it hearty.
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Crockpot Adaptation: You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Different Cuts of Meat: Instead of ground beef, try using diced chuck roast for a different texture. Just increase the cooking time to ensure the beef is tender.
How to Serve
Serve the finished Ground Beef Stew piping hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a hearty slice of crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a filling meal. For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling a bit of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top just before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
This Ground Beef Stew pairs wonderfully with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider or a rich herbal tea can complement the flavors beautifully. As for side dishes, consider serving a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the stew. For dessert, a warm apple crisp or chocolate cake would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, the stew can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it appears too thick.
Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch Oven or Stockpot: This is essential for browning the meat and simmering the stew.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To chop the vegetables.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth. For a dairy-free version, simply avoid using any dairy toppings. Gluten-free individuals can enjoy this dish without modifications, as all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. For nut allergies, ensure to check any pre-packaged ingredients for traces of nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer months, add fresh vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for a seasonal twist. In the fall, consider incorporating butternut squash or sweet potatoes for added sweetness. Winter is perfect for root vegetables like parsnips and turnips, which contribute to the stew’s heartiness.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen ground beef? Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before cooking.
- How long should I simmer the stew? Simmer the stew for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, but longer is even better.
- What can I substitute for beef broth? Chicken broth or vegetable broth works well as substitutes.
- Can I skip browning the beef? It’s not recommended, as browning adds depth of flavor, but you can cook it directly in the stew on a lower heat if necessary.
How To Make Ground Beef Stew
Ground Beef Stew
Ground Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich broth into a warming meal that’s perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 362Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 67mgSodium 768mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 25g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stew is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. With its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and comforting nature, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to master and delightful enough to share with family and friends. Give it a try, and you may find it becomes a beloved staple in your home!
