Ground Beef Stew

Looking for the perfect cozy meal that’s both comforting and satisfying? Look no further than this ground beef stew! Whether you’re planning a family gathering, meal prep for the week, or just an easy weeknight dinner at home, you’re going to love this recipe.

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If there’s anything better than a traditional beef stew, it’s this quick and easy ground beef stew! It’s made up of classic rustic stew components like earthy potatoes, soft carrots, savory herbs, and a rich broth, with browned, seasoned ground beef simmered right in.

I’ve based this hearty stew off of those cozy, old-fashioned country kitchen meals, so you know it’s gonna be great! It’s budget-friendly, straightforward, and quick-cooking, but also incredibly nourishing and deeply flavorful. It’s one of my favorites for chilly nights, and the leftovers taste even better the next day.

Ingredients in Ground Beef Stew

This ingredient setup keeps things classic while building a balanced and flavorful comfort meal.

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How to Make Ground Beef Stew

This recipe comes together step by step with simple browning, simmering, and layering of flavors.

1. Brown the ground beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed. This step builds a flavorful foundation and prevents the stew from becoming greasy.

2. Sauté the aromatics

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This layering of aromatics creates depth and complexity in the broth.

3. Add tomato paste and seasonings

Stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen their flavor. This small step makes a big difference in the final taste of the stew.

4. Deglaze and add liquids

Pour in a splash of beef broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Then add the remaining broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. These browned bits hold tons of flavor, so don’t skip this step.

5. Add potatoes and simmer

Stir in diced potatoes and bring the stew to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become fork-tender and the flavors should meld together beautifully.

6. Adjust thickness if needed

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering pot. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the broth thickens slightly. This step is optional but helps create a richer, more cohesive texture.

7. Add final touches

Stir in frozen peas if using, and let them warm through for 2 to 3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. This final step adds freshness and balance to the hearty dish.

8. Rest and serve

Let the stew rest off the heat for 5 minutes before ladling into bowls. This allows the flavors to settle and the temperature to become perfect for eating. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or sides for a complete meal.

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How to Serve Ground Beef Stew

This stew works best when served hot right from the pot. I like ladling generous portions into deep bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side. It feels like a complete meal without needing anything else, though a little extra always welcomes.

For a simple addition, serve it with buttered dinner rolls or a simple green salad. That adds a nice textural contrast and helps balance the richness of the stew.

It also works well for meal prep since it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Serving it fresh keeps the vegetables tender and the broth rich and flavorful.

Recipe Tips

• Brown the beef well for deeper flavor and better texture in the finished stew.
• Cut vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly throughout the pot.
• Do not rush the simmering step; low and slow helps flavors meld properly.
• Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level in the final dish.
• Add frozen peas at the end to keep their bright color and fresh flavor.
• Let the stew rest before serving to allow flavors to settle and thicken slightly.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to four days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.