Name: Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, diced into about 1″ pieces; 4 cups beef stock; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 12 ounce bag frozen peas and carrots; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 2 reviews

If you are craving something that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction, this Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender ground beef, tender Yukon gold potatoes, vibrant peas and carrots, and a savory blend of herbs and seasonings, this stew delivers comfort in every spoonful. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and the table with happy smiles. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises a delicious, filling experience that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are ten items in total: at the top left, a clear glass bowl filled with dark brown stock; below it, a white plate with yellow potato pieces that still have their skin on; next to the potatoes, a small white bowl with chopped garlic; in the center, a round white plate holds a large quantity of finely diced white onion; near the onion, a tiny white bowl contains dark balsamic vinegar; to the right of the balsamic vinegar, a small white cup is filled with brown Worcestershire sauce; next to it, a small white bowl holds red tomato paste; slightly below that, a clear bowl contains white corn starch powder; at the bottom right, raw ground beef sits on a crumpled light brown parchment paper; and finally at the bottom center, a white bowl is filled with bright orange and green frozen mixed vegetables. The overall scene is well lit with all items labeled with black text on white backgrounds. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe comes together beautifully with simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the stew’s rich flavor, hearty texture, and appealing color palette that will have everyone asking for seconds.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base for sautéing and infuses subtle richness.
1 pound ground beef: The star protein that brings meaty depth and heartiness.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Offers sweetness and a mild bite when cooked down.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Provides fragrant warmth and enhances every element.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Boosts color and adds a concentrated tangy sweetness.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that layers in cozy flavors.
1.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, diced into about 1″ pieces: Creamy and sturdy, these potatoes hold up well in stew.
4 cups beef stock: Creates the savory stew base that makes this dish comforting.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami punch and depth to the broth.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Lends a gentle tang that brightens the rich flavors.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the stew for a luscious consistency.
12 ounce bag frozen peas and carrots: Brings sweetness and color contrast, plus extra nutrition.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
Fresh cracked pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh, vibrant finish that adds color and brightness.

How to Make Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and use a spatula to break it into crumbles as it browns evenly. This step builds the rich meaty foundation that makes this Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe so satisfying. Cook until fully browned with no pink remaining.

Step 2: Sauté Onion with Seasonings

Add the diced onion to the pot along with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Let it soften and turn translucent over about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick or burn. The gentle sweetness of the onions perfectly balances the savory beef.

Step 3: Develop Flavor with Garlic, Tomato Paste, and Herbs

Next, stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture for about one minute, stirring frequently so that the tomato paste caramelizes slightly, boosting the stew’s complexity and color. This is where layers of flavor start to come alive.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth, Simmer

Pour in the diced Yukon gold potatoes, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Season again with salt and pepper, then bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully into the broth.

Step 5: Thicken and Add Vegetables

Dissolve the cornstarch in about 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering stew along with the frozen peas and carrots. Continue cooking gently for another 10 minutes, or until the stew thickens slightly and all the vegetables are tender. This finishing step gives the stew its signature hearty texture and nutritious pop.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Give the stew a final taste, adjusting salt and pepper to your liking. Then sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top to add brightness and a touch of color. Now your Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe is ready to serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe

A top view of a blue pot filled with browned ground meat mixed with translucent cooked onion pieces. In the center, there are three small piles: a heap of dried herbs with a greenish-brown color, a bright red dollop of tomato paste, and a cluster of finely chopped fresh garlic with a pale yellow color. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a simple garnish that really elevates the stew’s presentation and taste, adding a pop of green and a burst of fresh flavor. For an extra creamy touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese can also be delicious on top.

Side Dishes

This stew is a hearty, fulfilling meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables offer a nice balance, adding freshness and crunch alongside the tender stew.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle the stew over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for an elevated comfort food experience. You can also serve it in individual bread bowls for a cozy, rustic presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more delicious. Just be sure to cool the stew before sealing it to preserve texture and safety.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavor and consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. Adding a splash of beef stock or water can help loosen it up if it’s thickened too much in the fridge or freezer. Microwaving is fine for individual portions but stir halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work, though the stew won’t be quite as rich. For a beefy flavor, stick to ground beef, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

What can I substitute for Yukon gold potatoes?

You can use red potatoes or russets if needed, but Yukon golds hold their shape best and have a lovely buttery texture that complements the stew perfectly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced celery, green beans, or mushrooms to customize your stew and make it your own.

How thick should the stew be?

The stew should be thick enough to coat your spoon but still have a little broth to keep it comforting and soupy. Adjust the cornstarch slurry or add more broth as needed to reach your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of this Hearty Hamburger Stew Recipe—warm, flavorful, and packed with goodness. It’s an easy recipe to keep in your back pocket for busy nights or whenever you need a little extra cozy love from your cooking. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!