When you crave a warm, hearty meal thatβs both budget-friendly and deeply satisfying, nothing beats a bowl of hamburger beef stew. This rustic stew combines ground beef (hamburger), tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth into a dish that tastes like itβs been simmering all day β but is ready in under an hour.
Below youβll find the ultimate recipe, expert tips, serving ideas, storage advice, and nutritional insights β everything you need to make your blog the best source for this comfort food classic.

π Why Youβll Love This Hamburger Beef Stew
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Ready in under 1 hour
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Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
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Comforting and family-approved
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Freezer-friendly & great for meal prep
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Adaptable: make it gluten-free, low-carb, or even dairy-free!
π Ingredients Youβll Need
Hereβs what youβll need for a classic hamburger beef stew for 4β6 servings:
For the Stew:
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled & diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
π³ Step-by-Step Instructions
π₯ Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5β7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary and set the beef aside.
π§ Step 2: SautΓ© Vegetables
In the same pot, add olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. SautΓ© for 5β6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
π₯ Step 3: Build the Stew
Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for 1β2 minutes to bloom the flavors. Return the beef to the pot.
Add diced tomatoes, potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
π² Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25β30 minutes, until potatoes and carrots are tender.
π± Step 5: Finish
Add frozen peas and simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

π©βπ³ Expert Tips
π Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
π For extra depth, splash in a bit of red wine after browning the beef.
π If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some potatoes into the broth before serving.
π Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
π Want it lower-carb? Substitute potatoes with rutabaga or turnips.
π₯ Serving Suggestions
π Serve with crusty bread or buttery biscuits.
π₯ Pair with a light green salad for balance.
π· A glass of robust red wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
βοΈ Storage & Freezer Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
π Nutritional Info (per serving β approximate)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 23g
- Carbs: 29g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
π Variations to Try
- Southwest Style: Add corn, black beans, and a pinch of cumin.
- Italian Twist: Stir in basil, oregano, and use crushed tomatoes instead of diced.
- Creamy Stew: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for richness.
- Vegan Version: Substitute beef with lentils or textured soy protein and use vegetable broth.
π€ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sautΓ© the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6β7 hours or HIGH for 3β4 hours.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes β ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work well here.
How do I thicken the stew?
You can mash some of the potatoes into the broth or mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the simmering stew.

π Final Thoughts
This hamburger beef stew recipe is proof that comfort food doesnβt have to be complicated or expensive. With just a handful of humble ingredients and a little love, you can serve your family a nourishing, delicious meal that warms hearts and fills bellies. Whether you make it on a chilly evening or prep it ahead for busy nights, itβs a dish youβll come back to again and again.
