There’s something uniquely comforting about a hearty stew, especially one that simmers gently throughout the day, filling your home with tantalizing aromas. Our Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew embodies that comforting experience, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings.
This stew has become a staple in my household, particularly on chilly days when the prospect of a warm, filling meal is especially inviting. I vividly remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a crisp autumn evening, and I had spent the day leafing through old family recipes. When I stumbled upon this one, it seemed to promise the kind of homey warmth that only a slow-cooked meal can provide. As the stew bubbled away in the slow cooker, my kitchen was enveloped in a delightful blend of savory scents. The anticipation grew with every passing hour, and when the time finally came to serve it, the stew lived up to every expectation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb ground beef
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Prepare the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the stew.
Drain the Fat
Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain off any excess fat from the skillet. This helps to ensure that the stew isn’t overly greasy and allows the other flavors to shine.
Transfer to Slow Cooker
Place the browned ground beef into the bowl of your slow cooker. This forms the hearty base of the stew, adding depth and richness to the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the Vegetables
Peel and slice 3 carrots. Dice 2 potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop 1 onion finely. These vegetables not only contribute to the stew’s flavor but also add texture and nutrition.
Add to Slow Cooker
Add the prepared carrots, potatoes, and chopped onion to the slow cooker.
Mince the Garlic
Mince 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the slow cooker. Garlic will infuse the stew with a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Add Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
Pour in 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained, and 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce. The tomatoes and sauce provide a rich base for the stew, adding acidity and depth to the flavor.
Add Beef Broth
Pour in 2 cups of beef broth. This will help to create a savory, flavorful stew base.
Season the Stew
Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. These seasonings will infuse the stew with classic Italian flavors.
Stir to Combine
Stir everything together to ensure that the beef and vegetables are well-coated with the tomato and broth mixture. This will help to ensure that every bite is full of flavor.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Stew
Set the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours. The long, slow cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the vegetables will become tender and flavorful.
Add Frozen Vegetables
About 30 minutes before the stew is done cooking, stir in 1 cup of frozen corn and 1 cup of frozen peas. These add a burst of color and sweetness to the stew, as well as additional texture.
Adjust Seasonings
Once the stew is finished cooking, give it a good stir and taste. Adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve Hot
Ladle the hot stew into bowls. It’s wonderful on its own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping. You might also pair it with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Garnish (Optional)
For an extra touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. These additions can elevate the stew and provide an extra burst of flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Choices: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives will provide a leaner option while still delivering a satisfying meal.
Vegetable Options: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. For example, you could add bell peppers, green beans, or sweet potatoes for additional variety.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the stew. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Make It Vegetarian: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to create a hearty vegetarian stew. Add extra vegetables or beans to make up for the missing protein.
Summary
This Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that’s as soothing as it is satisfying. Its rich, savory broth and tender vegetables come together in a harmonious blend, making it a favorite for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. The ease of preparation and the slow cooker’s magic make it a go-to recipe for busy days when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
Each bowl of this stew promises a warm, hearty experience, filled with the robust flavors of seasoned beef and tender vegetables. The versatility of the recipe allows you to adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs, ensuring that it can become a cherished part of your meal rotation. Enjoy the cozy embrace of this stew, knowing that every bite brings a touch of homemade comfort to your table.
