Simple Ground Beef Stew: A Hearty Delight

There’s just something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of stew, especially on a chilly evening. This Simple Ground Beef Stew combines tender ground beef with fresh vegetables and rich broth, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings family together around the dinner table, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. You’ll find the simplicity of the ingredients shines through, allowing each element to play its part deliciously.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this ground beef stew apart? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for novice cooks, and it comes together in just over an hour. This dish not only warms your heart, but it’s also budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for families looking to eat well without breaking the bank. Plus, the combination of flavors makes it kid-approved, ensuring even picky eaters will come back for seconds.

“This stew is a staple in our household! It’s so simple to make, yet it always impresses. The flavors blend beautifully, and it’s perfect for those busy weeknights!” – Satisfied Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Let’s break this down into clear steps to make your cooking experience seamless. This recipe uses straightforward ingredients and requires minimal fuss, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful stew, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
3 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil

Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, feel free to swap out vegetables with whatever you have on hand, like peas or green beans.

Step-by-Step Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
Toss in the ground beef, cooking it until browned throughout.
Mix in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, letting them soften for a few minutes.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth; stir in the salt, pepper, and thyme.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

This easy method guarantees a rich and flavorful stew every time!

Serving Suggestions

The best way to enjoy your Simple Ground Beef Stew is hot, straight from the pot. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth. A fresh green salad on the side can add a vibrant contrast, while a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate your dish’s presentation and flavor.

Storage Tips

To keep your Simple Ground Beef Stew fresh longer, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags; it will stay good for up to 3 months. Always remember to reheat the stew to a boiling point to ensure it is safe to eat.

Expert Advice

For the best flavor, let your stew simmer for as long as possible; the ingredients will meld together beautifully. If you’re short on time, using a pressure cooker can significantly cut down the cooking time while still delivering a rich taste. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking; sometimes a little extra thyme or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can take this dish to the next level!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this stew! You can add a kick with some chili powder or diced bell peppers for a touch of sweetness. For a heartier texture, load in more veggies like celery or mushrooms. If you want a thicker stew, consider adding a cornstarch slurry or feel free to mash some of the potatoes right in!

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this stew? Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-40 minutes. So, you can expect the total time to be around an hour.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Absolutely! Just make sure to peel and chop them beforehand. You may need to add a little extra broth as fresh tomatoes hold more water.
How do I safely reheat leftover stew? Reheat in a pot over medium heat until it bubbles, or use the microwave in a microwave-safe dish until heated completely.

This Simple Ground Beef Stew is the perfect dish to warm your soul and fill your belly. Enjoy making it, sharing it, and, most importantly, savoring every spoonful!

Simple Ground Beef Stew

Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Description

A comforting ground beef stew filled with fresh vegetables and rich broth, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
3 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
Toss in the ground beef, cooking it until browned throughout.
Mix in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, letting them soften for a few minutes.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth; stir in the salt, pepper, and thyme.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also swap out vegetables depending on what you have on hand.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: beef stew, comfort food, easy recipe, family dinner