Hamburger Stew

Short Description
Hamburger Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender ground beef, vegetables, and rice in a savory broth. This one-pot meal is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a wholesome and filling option for the whole family. The rich flavors develop as it simmers, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hamburger Stew is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with ground beef, hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, and seasoned to perfection, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s both filling and flavorful. The rice adds a satisfying texture while absorbing all the rich flavors of the broth. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a warm, homemade meal without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s a great dish for leftovers!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 4 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 8 medium carrots, thinly sliced
• 4 celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and chopped onions over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the stewed tomatoes, sliced carrots, sliced celery, cubed potatoes, water, uncooked rice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables and rice are tender.
5. Uncover and simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, and enjoy your hearty, flavorful stew!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Variations: Add more vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
• Ground Turkey: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of the stew.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
• Broth Option: For a richer base, replace the water with beef broth or chicken broth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Hamburger Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This stew freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if needed. You can also microwave it until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, you can use instant rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time. Add it in during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to dice them and add extra seasoning to replicate the flavor of stewed tomatoes.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stew ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even better the next day.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Hamburger Stew is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use certified gluten-free rice.

5. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the vegetables and rice are tender.

6. Can I add beans to the stew?

Yes, you can add beans such as kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber.

7. How can I make this stew thicker?

To thicken the stew, you can mash some of the potatoes and carrots with a potato masher or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the final simmer.

8. Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.

9. How do I know when the stew is done?

The stew is done when the vegetables and rice are tender, and the flavors are well blended. You can check the texture of the rice and potatoes to ensure they are cooked through.

10. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use different types of rice, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Brown rice or wild rice will require a longer cooking time.

Conclusion

Hamburger Stew is the perfect cozy meal for cooler days or when you need a hearty dish that’s both filling and flavorful. With ground beef, a variety of vegetables, and rice in a savory tomato broth, this stew offers a wholesome, one-pot meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

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