Description
Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4 cups beef broth
2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
1 1/2 cups carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Sauté the Veggies: Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef and veggie mixture to a slow cooker (or large pot). Add potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook:
Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Stovetop: Simmer over low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Garnish & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (slow cooker) / 1 hour (stovetop)
Total Time: Varies
Servings: 6
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect stew every time. First, ensure all vegetables are uniformly chopped for even cooking. Brown the ground beef in batches to avoid steaming, achieving a deep, flavorful fond in the pan. After draining fat, sauté the aromatic vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, garlic) in the same pan to soak up the beefy residue. When transferring to your slow cooker or pot, deglaze the skillet with a splash of the beef broth, scraping up all browned bits, and add this liquid gold to the stew. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a side of fluffy biscuits. For a lighter option, serve over a bed of steamed rice or egg noodles. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Top with not just parsley, but also a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pot meal is simple: brown the beef, sauté the vegetables, combine everything in your cooking vessel with broth and seasonings, and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. The slow cooker does the work for you, making it an ideal set-and-forget dinner. Adjust final seasoning with salt and pepper before serving for the best taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork are excellent leaner alternatives. For a richer taste, try using ground lamb.
How can I thicken the stew? Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water. Stir this slurry into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Cool the stew completely and store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely. Diced bell peppers, peas, corn, or green beans are great additions. Add softer veggies like peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, also works.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the beef, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful sear. Do not skip sautéing the vegetables; this step builds a critical flavor base. Resist the urge to overcook the stew, especially on the stovetop, as potatoes can become mushy. Finally, always taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as flavors concentrate during long cooking.
Conclusion
This Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Stew is the epitome of comforting, nourishing home cooking. Its flexibility with ingredients and cooking methods makes it a reliable staple for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies the whole family. Master this foundational recipe, and you’ll have a delicious, customizable dish in your repertoire for years to come.