Hamburger Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, and a rich, flavorful broth all simmered to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out, with every bite packed full of simple, satisfying flavors and that cozy, home-cooked feeling.
I love making this stew on chilly evenings when I want something easy but filling. The ground beef browns perfectly with onions and garlic, then everything simmers slowly so the potatoes and carrots soak up all the good juices. It’s such a straightforward recipe, but something about it feels like a big warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s great for using up whatever veggies you have on hand, which makes it super flexible.
One of my favorite ways to serve Hamburger Stew is with a big piece of crusty bread on the side, perfect for dipping and soaking up all that tasty broth. It’s a meal that everyone seems to love, no matter their age, and it always disappears quickly at the dinner table. This stew always reminds me of cozy family dinners and that calm, satisfying feeling when a simple meal is just right.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the base and brings rich flavor to the stew. For a leaner option, choose 90% lean beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
Potatoes & carrots: These add texture and heartiness. Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well, but russets or red potatoes work fine too. Carrots can be swapped with parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Tomato sauce & Worcestershire sauce: Tomato sauce gives the stew its depth and color. If you don’t have tomato sauce, use tomato paste thinned with water or canned diced tomatoes. Worcestershire can be left out or replaced with soy sauce for a different umami note.
Herbs & spices: Thyme, rosemary, and paprika add warmth and earthiness. Fresh herbs are great if you have them, but dried works just as well. Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat if you like.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Browning Ground Beef?
Browning the ground beef well is key for flavor in this stew. Take your time and don’t rush it!
- Heat your pot on medium-high and add oil before the beef.
- Break the meat into chunks but don’t stir too often—let it sit for a couple of minutes so it gets nice and brown.
- Once browned, scoop out any excess fat if there’s too much, to keep the stew from feeling greasy.
- This browning creates those flavorful caramelized bits that deepen your stew’s taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – I recommend this because it distributes heat evenly and can handle simmering for a long time without burning.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring and scraping up browned bits from the bottom, which add flavor.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep everything precise, especially when adding spices and liquids.
- Knife and cutting board – safe and easy way to chop vegetables and herbs.
- Optional: ladle – makes serving easier and less messy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped bell peppers or celery for extra crunch and freshness. They work well in the simmering stage.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner, lighter version.
- Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a richer, saltier flavor.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese or add a dollop of sour cream before serving for a creamy touch.
How to Make Hamburger Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 stalks celery, diced (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or 1 tbsp fresh chopped rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stew takes about 10 minutes to prepare and brown the beef and vegetables, plus 30 to 40 minutes of simmering time for the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender. Overall, you can expect to spend about 45-50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through—about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Mix in Sauces and Seasonings:
Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to let the flavors come together.
4. Add Broth and Vegetables:
Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a boil. Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and celery if using. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in Peas and Finish Cooking:
About 5 minutes before the stew is done, sprinkle in the frozen peas and let them heat through.
6. Final Touches and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf. Give the stew a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary if you like. Serve it hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Stew?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even browning and safe cooking.
Can I Make Hamburger Stew Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Hamburger stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
How Can I Thicken the Stew if It’s Too Thin?
If you prefer a thicker texture, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until it thickens.
What Are Good Substitutions for Vegetables?
You can swap or add vegetables like parsnips, bell peppers, or green beans depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times so all veggies become tender.
