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Hamburger Stew

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This hearty hamburger stew is packed with savory flavors, tender veggies, and a rich, comforting broth. It's quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and will warm you up on chilly days. Pair it with crusty bread for a meal everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this stew becomes a family favorite fast.
This recipe is super easy to make with our step-by-step photos and clear directions below. We’ve included pro tips and tricks to help you perfect it every time. Plus, check out the FAQ section for answers to the most frequently asked questions!

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Hamburger stew comes together in under thirty minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. This savory, veggie-packed dish is rich, hearty, and bursting with comforting flavors that everyone will love. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family meals, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this stew delivers big flavor and cozy vibes in every bite!
Ingredients for Hamburger Stew

What you'll need to make this Hamburger Stew recipe:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (10-ounce) bag of Mirepoix blend vegetables (onions, celery, carrots)
- 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (16-ounce) bag mixed vegetables
- 2-4 cups beef stock
- ¾ pounds potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces
Pro Tip
The quantity of beef stock you use will depend on whether you want this dish to turn out more like a stew with a thicker texture or thinner like a soup.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your hamburger stew recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes make your stew uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Substitute Beef Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth for a slightly different but equally tasty flavor profile.
Instead of Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a different twist on your hearty hamburger stew.
Add Spices: Stir in paprika or Italian seasoning to give the stew an extra kick of bold flavor.
How to Make Hamburger Stew
Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and pictures to make the best hamburger stew. Check out our tips and tricks for extra flavor and perfect results every time. Let’s get started and bring this hearty dish to life!
Pro Tip
This easy hamburger stew recipe makes a great freezer meal. Double the batch for a quick dinner you can heat up on a busy night.
FIRST STEP: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook beef and onion, celery, and carrot vegetable mixture until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft.

SECOND STEP: Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine.

THIRD STEP: Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
Pro Tip
The beef broth liquid in the soup will evaporate as it simmers. For more broth, be sure to cover the simmering soup with a lid.
There are lots of hearty flavors in the soup, and it doesn’t need to simmer for a really long time for the flavors to blend, just enough to cook the vegetables.

FOURTH STEP: Adjust the amount of beef stock for desired stew/soup consistency. For a stew-like consistency, use less stock and simmer uncovered.
To maintain a thinner hamburger soup result, use more stock and simmer with the lid on.
FIFTH STEP: Garnish with a little bit of fresh parsley and serve.
How To Serve Hamburger Stew
Hamburger stew is versatile and works for so many occasions. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a fun gathering, this recipe always satisfies. Here are some great ways to serve it:
- Family Dinners: This stew is perfect for a comforting family meal, especially on chilly evenings. Kids love its savory flavors and tender veggies, making it a winner for all ages. Serve it with homemade dinner rolls or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Casual Gatherings or Potlucks: Bring this hearty stew to a potluck, and it will disappear quickly. Its rich flavor and easy preparation make it ideal for sharing. Pair it with cornbread or a creamy coleslaw to impress the crowd.
- Seasonal Comfort Food: This stew shines during fall and winter when warm, hearty meals are most comforting. It’s perfect for cozying up on cold nights or after outdoor fun. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for the ultimate seasonal comfort.

Why You'll Love This Easy Hamburger Stew Recipe
- A Hearty, Flavorful Classic: This recipe combines juicy ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth for the ultimate comfort food experience. Every spoonful delivers a blend of satisfying textures and bold flavors that keep readers coming back for more.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Hamburger stew shines as a versatile dish for casual family dinners or cozy nights by the fire. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for any season, especially when you crave something warm and filling.
- Loved by Everyone: This dish wins over both kids and adults with its familiar flavors and hearty appeal. It’s an all-ages favorite that guarantees smiles around the dinner table.
Hamburger stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a timeless dish that brings comfort, joy, and a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Recipe FAQ
How long does it take to make ground beef stew?
This hearty stew takes about thirty minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick, comforting dinner.
What kind of meat works best for hamburger stew?
Ground beef is the classic choice, but lean or fattier cuts work equally well depending on your flavor preferences.
What vegetables should I include in hamburger stew?
Carrots, celery, onions, and peas are traditional, but you can add corn or green beans for extra flavor and texture.
How do I thicken the broth in hamburger stew?
Mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water, then stir it into the stew for a thicker consistency.

Serving FAQ
What’s the best way to serve hamburger stew for a family meal?
Ladle the stew into bowls and serve it warm. Its hearty flavors and rich broth make it a comforting family favorite.
Can hamburger stew be served for casual gatherings?
Yes! Serve it in a large pot, so guests can easily help themselves. It’s perfect for laid-back, cozy get-togethers.
Is hamburger stew better served right away or after resting?
Hamburger stew tastes amazing right away, but letting it rest for ten minutes enhances the flavors even more.
What temperature should hamburger stew be served at?
Serve hamburger stew piping hot to highlight its bold, savory flavors. This keeps it comforting and perfect for every bite.

Storage FAQ
Follow the tips and tricks below for the best ways to store and reheat hamburger stew. From making it ahead to reheating leftovers, we’ve got all the details you need to keep this dish fresh and delicious. Let’s make sure every bowl of stew tastes just as amazing as the first!
Can I prepare hamburger stew ahead of time?
Yes, make the stew and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
What’s the best way to store leftover hamburger stew?
Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days for the best freshness.
Can I freeze hamburger stew for later?
Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How should I reheat hamburger stew for serving?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in short increments.

Hamburger Stew
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 10 ounces Mirepoix blend vegetables onions (celery, carrots)
- 14.5 ounces tomatoes diced
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon basil or Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 16 ounces mixed vegetables
- 2 to 4 cups beef stock
- ¾ pounds potatoes cut into bite-size pieces
DIRECTIONS
- In a large stockpot over medium heat, sauté ground beef and the onion, celery, carrot vegetable mixture until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft.
- Add the rest of the ingredients and stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
- Adjust the amount of beef stock for the desired stew/soup consistency. For a stew-like consistency, use less stock and simmer uncovered. To maintain a thinner soup, use more stock and simmer with the lid on.
- Garnish with a bit of fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- The quantity of beef stock you use will depend on whether you want this dish to turn out more like a stew with a thicker texture or thinner like a soup.
- This easy hamburger stew recipe makes a great freezer meal. Double the batch for a quick dinner you can heat up on a busy night.
- The beef broth liquid in the soup will evaporate as it simmers. For more broth, be sure to cover the simmering soup with a lid. There are lots of hearty flavors in the soup, and it doesn’t need to simmer for a really long time for the flavors to blend, just enough to cook the vegetables.






Comments
Phil B. says
Perfect for weeknight dinner when you want comfort food without fuss. I used mixed frozen veggies just to save time and it still tasted homemade.