This Crock Pot Hamburger Stew is a cozy dish packed with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and spices. Just toss everything in the pot, and let it simmer all day!
I love coming home to the smell of this stew. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re just too cozy to cook. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef is great to minimize grease. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, ground turkey or chicken works well too. You could also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Potatoes: I love using Russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, but you can substitute with Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Just keep the skins on for added fiber and taste!
Carrots: Fresh carrots are a must, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen carrots can be used as a shortcut. Just toss them in the pot without thawing.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is the best option, but store-bought is perfectly fine. For a lighter meal, use vegetable broth or low sodium options.
Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer a richer flavor, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes. You can also substitute with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Stew?
To enhance the flavor of your stew, browning the ground beef is key. Searing it in a hot skillet helps to develop a rich, deep flavor.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the beef to ensure it browns well.
- Don’t skip the garlic and onion; they add a wonderful aroma and depth to the stew.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of taste, and taste the stew before serving—adjust spice levels as you prefer!
Slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld perfectly, creating a delicious comfort food that warms you up on cold days.
Crock Pot Hamburger Stew
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning beef)
Time Needed:
This wonderful stew requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Cook it in your Crock Pot on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer you let it simmer, the more flavorful it becomes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then add the ground beef. Cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as needed. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your stew nice and lean.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned beef to your Crock Pot. Next, toss in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, diced celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and the can of diced tomatoes (juices included). Stir everything together so it’s nicely mixed!
3. Add the Liquid:
Pour in the beef broth, which will give your stew a delicious savory base. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients. This is where the magic begins as everything cooks together!
4. Season the Stew:
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if you’re using it. Stir gently to make sure the seasoning is spread throughout the stew. Feel free to taste it at this point to see if you’d like to add more seasoning!
5. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Let your stew cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the flavors will combine beautifully and the vegetables will become tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, give it a final taste and adjust any seasoning if necessary. Ladle the hearty stew into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of dried parsley for a touch of color. Enjoy your homemade comfort food!
With this easy recipe, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you after a long day. Happy cooking! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef! Just make sure to fully thaw it before browning. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Stew in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warmed through. The flavors will actually improve after sitting overnight!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Hamburger Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, rice, or even a simple green salad. You can also serve it over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal!
