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If you’ve ever craved a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then this Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe is exactly what you need. Rich, comforting, and packed with a beautiful medley of tender potatoes, vibrant carrots, aromatic herbs, and savory ground beef, this stew delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make it a true family favorite. Each spoonful boasts layers of wholesome ingredients simmered together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this hearty stew lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are everyday pantry staples that come together to create something truly delicious. Each element contributes to the overall depth, texture, and vibrant colors that make this dish shine at the dinner table.
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or leaner): The protein-packed base that makes this stew filling and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors in every ingredient.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild peppery warmth without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Delivers an aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives a rich, tangy depth and gorgeous color.
- 4 cups beef broth: The savory, meaty liquid that ties the stew together.
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a complex, umami-rich flavor perfect for beef.
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks: Tender yet firm, they soak up stew flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium white onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch.
- 4 medium carrots, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 4 medium celery ribs, sliced: Contributes fresh, crisp texture and balance.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds an earthy aromatic note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a hint of Mediterranean warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Offers brightness and herbaceous undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness and lovely color.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: Adds a nuanced, warm spice kick.
- 1/4 cup cold water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch for thickening.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the stew to a luscious, hearty consistency.
How to Make Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef along with salt and pepper to season right from the beginning. Break the meat apart and cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink anywhere—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the stew from being overly greasy.
Step 2: Build Flavor with Garlic and Tomato Paste
Next, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook these together for a minute or two until you get that wonderful fragrant aroma releasing from the pot; it’s a sign that the base flavors are starting to deepen beautifully.
Step 3: Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use your spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot where browned bits stick—this is packed with flavor that will enrich your stew wonderfully as it simmers.
Step 4: Incorporate Vegetables and Seasonings
Time to add the hearty vegetables—the potatoes, onion, carrot, and celery go in now. Alongside, sprinkle in the sugar and the selection of dried herbs and spices: basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and allspice. These work together to create a savory and slightly sweet backdrop for the ground beef, making every bite perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low to let it gently simmer. Cover the pot and stir occasionally during the next 30 to 40 minutes. The goal here is tender vegetables and a rich melding of flavors that only time can create.
Step 6: Thicken the Stew
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until it dissolves completely. Slowly stream this mixture into the simmering stew, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it cook on low for a few minutes more until the stew thickens into a perfectly hearty consistency.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your stew a taste test to see if it needs extra salt or pepper. Adjust seasoning as you prefer. When ready, ladle it hot into bowls—the deep flavors and tender textures will make every spoonful feel like comfort food at its finest.
How to Serve Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your stew, try some fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top. A dollop of sour cream or a few shredded cheese flakes also add a lovely creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the robust stew flavors.
Side Dishes
This stew is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a simple green salad can turn dinner into a feast. The bread is especially helpful for soaking up every last bit of that luscious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the stew in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe, or pile it high in hollowed-out bread bowls for a charming, edible serving vessel. For a special occasion, garnish with a swirl of fresh herb pesto or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions to delight guests visually and flavor-wise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer the stew to airtight containers and refrigerate it. It keeps well for up to 3 days and will taste even better after the flavors have a chance to meld further.
Freezing
This Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot. If the stew thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that will still deliver a tasty stew, though you may want to add a little extra seasoning or a splash of beef broth to keep the depth of flavor. The texture will be slightly different but equally satisfying.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and cornstarch as your thickener, which is naturally gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe without worrying about gluten.
What’s the best way to make this stew spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes with your dried herbs in step 4 or a dash of hot sauce right before serving. This adds just the right kick while preserving the stew’s comforting qualities.
Can I prepare this stew in a slow cooker?
You sure can! Brown the beef and sauté the garlic and tomato paste ahead of time, then transfer everything into the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours until vegetables are tender and flavors meld magnificently.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
While this particular version highlights ground beef, you can swap the meat for hearty mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Adjust seasonings accordingly to keep the stew vibrant and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe, it’s hard not to make it your go-to comfort meal. It’s one of those dishes that feels like home in a bowl—simple ingredients transformed by time, love, and a bit of simmering magic. Cozy up with a big bowl and enjoy every nourishing bite. You’re going to love how effortlessly this recipe fits into your weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings alike.
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Hearty Ground Beef Stew with Potatoes and Vegetables Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef Stew packed with tender vegetables and rich seasonings, perfect for a comforting family meal. This easy-to-make stew combines ground beef with potatoes, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs simmered to perfection in a thickened savory broth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 4 medium celery ribs, sliced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Thickening Agent
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink, about 10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the stew from becoming greasy.
- Cook Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant to develop deeper flavors in the stew.
- Add Liquids: Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits, which add richness to the stew base.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add diced red potatoes, diced white onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Stir in granulated sugar, dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and ground allspice evenly into the mixture.
- Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, mix the cold water with cornstarch until completely dissolved. Slowly pour this slurry into the stew while stirring continuously. Continue cooking on low heat for a few more minutes until the stew thickens to a hearty consistency.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Serve the stew hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner stew option.
- For a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for an extra 10 minutes before adding the cornstarch slurry.
- Adding a splash of red wine during step 3 can enhance the stew’s depth.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
- This stew freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
