Why Make This Recipe
Easy Ground Beef Stew is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. It’s hearty, filling, and simple to make. With tender ground beef and plenty of vegetables, this stew is both nutritious and satisfying. You can prepare it in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day!
How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in carrots and potatoes, followed by the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
How to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stew
Serve the stew hot in bowls. It goes well with warm bread or rice on the side. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and a nice touch. Enjoy it as a filling meal on its own or with a simple salad.
How to Store Easy Ground Beef Stew
Let the stew cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Easy Ground Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some red wine while cooking.
- If you want a thicker stew, mashed potatoes can be stirred in towards the end of cooking.
- Experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as peas or green beans.
Variation
You can easily make this stew with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Adding beans can also boost the protein content and make it more filling.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. Is it okay to make the stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors. Just reheat before serving.
3. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the meat and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a deliciously tender stew.
Easy Ground Beef Stew
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and filling stew made with ground beef and plenty of vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in carrots and potatoes, followed by the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
Serve hot with warm bread or rice, and top with fresh parsley for extra flavor. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months.