Warm, Comforting Ground Beef Stew
As the cool breeze gently rustles the leaves outside, I find myself craving something warm and hearty. This Easy Ground Beef Stew takes me back to cozy nights spent with family, gathered around the table with bowls of steaming goodness. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor and texture, and together they create a comforting dish that warms the soul. This stew matters because it’s more than just food; it’s a reminder of love, care, and the simple joys of home-cooked meals. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it feels to share. What makes this recipe special is its flexibility—you can easily adjust it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Easy Ground Beef Stew is a fantastic way to provide a nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, and the simmering process fills your home with an inviting aroma. Plus, ground beef is economical and versatile, making this dish budget-friendly as well. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply treating yourself, this stew provides comfort and flavor in every bite.
How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stew
Serve the Easy Ground Beef Stew in deep bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. It pairs wonderfully with warm bread or rolls on the side, perfect for soaking up the rich broth. You can also complement it with a simple side salad for extra freshness.
How to Store Easy Ground Beef Stew
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Easy Ground Beef Stew
- For added richness, consider adding a splash of red wine during cooking.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or corn for more variety.
- If you like a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.
Variation
You can make this stew using other proteins, such as turkey or chicken. Swap out ground beef for a leaner option, keeping the other ingredients the same for a slightly different flavor profile.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen ground beef?
- Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to thaw it safely before cooking.
- Is it necessary to brown the meat?
- Browning the meat adds depth to the flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry.
- Can I add beans to the stew?
- Absolutely! Adding beans can enhance the protein content and make the stew even heartier. Just be sure to add them in the last few minutes of cooking to heat them through.
Easy Ground Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Method
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot.