The Ultimate Hamburger Stew Recipe for Cozy Nights
Few dishes hit the spot like a bowl of hearty hamburger stew. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples, savory ground meat, colorful veggies, and rich seasonings for a comforting, one pot dinner that’s both filling and budget friendly. It’s become one of my favorite ways to use ground meat and every time I make it, the whole house ends up smelling amazing.
Homemade hamburger stew is a go to meal because it’s quick to put together, super easy to customize, and perfect for prepping ahead. The leftovers taste even better after the flavors blend overnight, so this stew doesn’t last long in my fridge!
Why Hamburger Stew Deserves a Spot in Your Dinner Rotation
- No fancy gadgets required: Just a skillet and a big ol’ pot will do the trick. It doesn’t get much more straightforward.
- Hearty & satisfying: Ground beef, beans, veggies, and sausage make for a filling, protein packed meal that’s great when you want comfort food.
- Flexible ingredients: Use what you’ve got—beef, turkey, or chicken all work well. Plenty of veggies or a can of beans add bulk and flavor.
- Leftovers reheat like a dream: Hamburger stew holds up well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for busy weeknights or easy lunches.
This dish is perfect when you don’t want to fuss with a lot of cleanup. Plus, since so many ingredients can be swapped in or out, it’s an ideal way to use up what you’ve got and make dinner exciting each time.
What You Need: Hamburger Stew Ingredients
Here’s the breakdown of what I like to use for my go to hamburger stew. You can easily swap ingredients based on your tastes or what’s in the pantry:
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- Portuguese sausage (three links if you’re keeping it classic, or any flavorful sausage you enjoy)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can mushrooms (pieces & stems)
- 1 can dark red kidney beans
- 1 medium onion, peeled & chopped
- Carrots, peeled & chopped (I usually go for about a pound)
- Celery, chopped (a whole bunch is perfect; feel free to adjust this amount)
- Seasonings: chili powder, seasoned salt, garlic powder, black pepper, plus any other spices that sound good to you
This ingredient list isn’t set in stone. Add peas, corn, bell peppers, or switch out the beans if you’re feeling creative. Hamburger stew is all about using what you have and keeping things easy. If you stumble upon a new veggie that needs using up, toss it in to give your stew extra flair.
How to Make Hamburger Stew: Step by Step Guide
1. Brown the Meat and Sausage
Start by seasoning your ground meat with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, brown the meat over medium high heat, breaking it into small bits as it cooks. If you’re using Portuguese sausage (or any sausage you prefer), slice it up and add it to the skillet. Let everything cook until the meat is browned and the sausage gets a little crispy.
2. Prep the Veggies and Beans
While your meat is browning, chop up the onion, carrots, and celery. No need to drain any canned vegetable as the liquid will add to the gravy for the stew
3. Combine in a Large Pot
Once the meat and sausage are cooked, transfer everything to a big soup pot. Add your chopped veggies, canned tomatoes, mushrooms, and beans with their juices. Sprinkle in chili powder, seasoned salt, and any other seasonings you’re into. Pour in enough water or broth till you reach your desired consistency.
4. Simmer and Finish
Bring the pot to a boil, stirring every so often. When the stew starts bubbling, fold in the celery. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for a couple hours. This step helps the celery stay a little crisp and lets the flavors come together in the best way. I usually sneak a taste after an hour to see if I want to add more salt or spice. If you want your stew thicker, let it simmer with the lid off for a while, or add a few diced potatoes as it cooks for extra richness.
Handy Tips & Easy Variations
- If you like your veggies super soft, toss the carrots in earlier and let them simmer longer.
- Bump up the flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire or a spoonful of tomato paste.
- Swap the beans for black beans, navy beans, or chickpeas for a new twist.
- This stew gets even tastier after a day in the fridge. It’s one of those “next day leftovers” that everyone fights over.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or just with a chunk of crusty bread.
- For a smoky kick, try a sprinkle of smoked paprika or add a chopped jalapeno before simmering.
- If you need a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken and load up on extra veggies.
One of the best things about hamburger stew is how easy it is to mix up the flavors. Don’t hesitate to try something a little different each time. Whether you toss in a handful of spinach for extra greens or add a spoonful of hot sauce for some heat, this dish welcomes creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, this stew does great in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sausage first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Wait until the last hour to add the celery if you want it crisp tender.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for up to three months. Microwave or reheat in a pot on the stove. Just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it thickens.
Q: Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plantbased ground meat and skip the sausage, or swap in more beans and extra veggies to make it hearty and meat free. Adding lentils is another great way to give the stew substance without using meat.
Q: Can I add pasta to my hamburger stew?
You sure can. Small shapes like elbow macaroni or shells work best. Just cook the pasta separately and stir it in right before serving to keep it from getting mushy.
Share Your Stew Stories!
If you give this hamburger stew a shot, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Every family seems to add their own touch, so tell me your favorite addins or seasoning twists. Cozy bowls of this stew just make chilly evenings better. Enjoy every spoonful!