Hearty Hamburger Potato Stew
There’s nothing quite like a big bowl of hearty stew on a chilly evening. This Hamburger Potato Stew is the ultimate comfort food — loaded with ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, sweet corn, and green beans simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s rustic, filling, and budget-friendly, making it a family favorite any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a meal-prep staple, or a cozy dish for Sunday supper, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Add tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well so the beef is coated with the spices and paste, deepening the flavor base.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Toss in the potatoes, carrots, green beans, and corn. Stir to combine everything with the seasoned beef.
Step 5: Add the Broth
Pour in beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30–35 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or biscuits for a complete, cozy meal.
Ingredient Breakdown and Variations
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a lighter or different flavor.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best, but red potatoes hold their shape well.
- Vegetables: Use frozen mixed veggies for convenience or add bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Broth: Beef broth gives the richest flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works too.
- Seasonings: Add a bay leaf while simmering, or spice it up with chili flakes for heat.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 325 |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 690 mg |
Pro Tips for Perfect Stew
- Sear for flavor – Browning the beef and tomato paste adds depth.
- Cut evenly – Dice potatoes and carrots the same size for even cooking.
- Low and slow – Let it simmer gently to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Make it ahead – Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Add greens – Stir in spinach or kale at the end for a nutritional boost.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just make sure your broth and tomato paste are gluten-free. No thickening agents are needed unless you prefer a creamier stew.
Q: How do I thicken the stew?
Mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot or stir in 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with water.
Q: What side dishes go best with this stew?
Crusty bread, biscuits, or a fresh green salad make perfect sides.
