Easy Ground Beef Stew Recipes for Cozy Comfort Food Nights
Hearty Ground Beef Stew
Warm up with a bowl of this fabulous ground beef stew, packed with rich flavors and tender vegetables. Perfect for those chilly evenings or as a satisfying dinner for the entire family, this stew is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. Whip it up in your trusty crockpot for a hearty meal you can enjoy any day of the week!
Why Make This Recipe
- Comfort Food: This stew encapsulates the essence of comfort, with each bite offering warmth and satisfaction.
- Versatile Meal: Great for lunchboxes or as a quick weeknight dinner, it adapts easily to suit your taste.
- Healthy and Filling: Packed with fresh veggies and protein, it’s a fulfilling option that won’t leave you craving more.
Ground beef stew shines as a go-to recipe when you’re looking for nourishing comfort food. With the added convenience of a crockpot, you can set it and forget it while immersing yourself in the delightful aroma wafting through your home.
How to Make Hearty Ground Beef Stew
Start by gathering your ingredients, and let’s dive into this step-by-step guide that will have your stew simmering beautifully in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
Directions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
- Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, followed by thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- If using, stir in frozen peas or green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot and enjoy!

Storage Tips for Hearty Ground Beef Stew
To ensure your hearty ground beef stew stays delicious, here are some storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months
Make sure to let the stew cool to room temperature before freezing for optimal freshness.
Serving Suggestions for Hearty Ground Beef Stew
When it comes to serving your stew, consider these great ideas:
- Serve alongside crusty bread for dip-and-savor goodness.
- Pair it with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
This stew is also perfect for meal prep, easily portioned out for future lunches or dinners.
Tips to Make Hearty Ground Beef Stew
- Brown the beef well: This adds depth and richness to the flavor.
- Use a variety of vegetables: Feel free to throw in any leftovers you have; zucchini, bell peppers, or peas work wonderfully!
- Adjust the thickness: For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: For a more adventurous flavor profile, add a teaspoon of chili powder or diced jalapeños while cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a plant-based version that’s equally hearty and filling.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen ground beef?
A: Yes, however, it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
A: Absolutely! Simply brown the meat and then add the vegetables and broth to a large pot, simmering on low for about an hour until everything is tender.
Q: What sides go well with this stew?
A: Crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even a side of rice are great companions for this stew.
Embrace the joy of cooking with this hearty ground beef stew recipe that not only warms the soul but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that creates memories, whether you’re diving into it on a cozy night or enjoying leftovers for lunch. Happy cooking!
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Hearty Ground Beef Stew
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting and nourishing ground beef stew, perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with rich flavors and tender vegetables, this crockpot meal is both easy and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot.
- Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, followed by thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- If using, stir in frozen peas or green beans in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
To store, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Let cool before freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: beef stew, comfort food, easy recipe, crockpot stew, family meal






