HAMBURGER STEW

Y’all. I am SO ready for sweater weather and cozy slow cooker stews! To kick the season off, I made this super simple Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew this week. It’s nothing fancy, it’s just simple, good, comforting food! I love the simplicity of this dish and the flexibility. It’s the perfect thing to have simmering away on the weekend as you do your chores or relax and enjoy watching the changing of the seasons. 🙂

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hamburger Stew is a delightful twist on the classic beef stew. By using ground beef instead of stew meat, it’s not only more affordable but also ensures a bit of beef in every bite. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a touch of Worcestershire and soy sauce creates an inviting, slow-cooked flavor that’s hard to resist.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow cooker (4 quarts or larger)
• Skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. russet potatoes ($1.20)
• 1/2 lb. carrots (about 4 carrots) ($0.45)
• 1 yellow onion ($0.32)
• 2 cloves garlic ($0.16)
• ½ tsp dried rosemary ($0.05)
• ½ tsp dried thyme ($0.05)
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.02)
• 1 lb. ground beef ($5.69)
• 1 15oz. can stewed tomatoes ($1.00)
• 2 cups beef broth ($0.26)
• 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce ($0.02)
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce ($0.06)
• 1 cup frozen peas ($0.60)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Peel and slice the carrots. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and pepper to a slow cooker (4 quarts or larger).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then drain off the excess fat. Add the browned and drained beef to the slow cooker along with the can of stewed tomatoes (with juices). Finally, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce to the slow cooker.
3. Give the contents of the slow cooker a brief stir to make sure everything is evenly combined (the broth may not fully cover the other ingredients). Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on high for four hours, or low for eight hours.
4. After cooking on high for four hours or low for eight hours, remove the lid and stir the stew. Use the back of a spoon to slightly mash some of the potatoes, which will help thicken the stew.
5. Add the frozen peas (no need to thaw) and stir to combine into the stew. Taste the stew and add extra salt if needed (I did not add any, this will depend on the salt content of your beef broth). Serve hot with bread for dipping!

Tips for Success

• Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds a rich flavor to the stew.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, mash more of the potatoes once they’re tender.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes.
• Try adding other vegetables like green beans or corn for variety.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This hearty stew is packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables and lean ground beef. It’s a balanced meal that provides protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives to ground beef.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, heartwarming Hamburger Stew that’s perfect for those chilly days. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors as much as I do. Feel free to share your experiences or any variations you try!