This hearty Crock Pot Hamburger Stew is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and tasty spices, it’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love letting it simmer all day while the smell fills my home. And guess what? It’s perfect for leftovers, if there are any! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the stew! For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. If you want more flavor, go for grass-fed beef or even add some sausage for a twist!
Potatoes: I love using russet potatoes because they become nice and creamy when cooked. You can substitute with Yukon Gold or even try sweet potatoes for a different flavor and nutritional boost!
Carrots and Celery: These add great texture and sweetness. If you don’t have celery, chopped bell peppers or green beans work well! You can also use frozen mixed vegetables in a pinch.
Diced Tomatoes: This adds moisture and acidity. If you prefer a less chunky stew, use crushed tomatoes instead. For a fresh flavor, consider adding in some fresh diced tomatoes at the end of cooking.
How Do I Make Sure My Stew Has Great Flavor?
Building flavor in your stew is key! Start with browning the ground beef; this creates a deeper taste. Don’t skip the garlic, as it adds wonderful aroma.
- Season layers: Season the meat as you cook, then again after adding vegetables. This boosts flavor throughout.
- Use homemade beef broth for the best taste, or store-bought if that’s what you have. Low-sodium is a better option if you’re watching salt.
- Experiment with spices! Feel free to add a bay leaf while cooking or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
How to Make Crock Pot Hamburger Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
- Bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll let the crock pot do the work for 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal, leaving you free to enjoy your day while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s fully browned and no longer pink, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
2. Load Up the Crock Pot:
Transfer the browned beef to your crock pot. Then, add in the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. This will create a colorful and hearty base for your stew!
3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!). Then, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This mix of flavors will come together beautifully as it cooks!
4. Cook the Stew:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavors will meld together, and the vegetables will become nice and tender.
5. Final Touches and Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, stir the stew gently and taste—a little more salt or pepper might be needed. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color. Serve hot with your favorite bread on the side. Yum!
Enjoy this cozy, flavorful hamburger stew that’s easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit lighter, so you might want to add extra seasonings to enhance it.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, consider using a low-sodium beef bouillon cube mixed with water.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they don’t get overcooked.
