This Crock Pot Hamburger Stew is a cozy dish packed with hearty chunks of beef, tender veggies, and rich broth. Just toss everything in the pot and let it bubble away!
I love how easy it is to prepare—no fuss, just good food. Plus, it’s perfect for those chilly days when you want something warm and filling. Yum! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is great for this stew. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffiness, but you could swap them for Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes may taste sweeter!
Carrots: Fresh carrots add color and flavor. If you need a quicker option, frozen carrots work too, but you may want to add them halfway through cooking to prevent them from getting mushy.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring acidity and depth. If you’re out, you could use crushed tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes, just chop them up. No need to drain—just throw them in with the juice!
Beef Broth: Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes. For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth if you have some on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot?
Layering is important to ensure even cooking and flavor throughout the stew. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with the sautéed ground beef at the bottom. This helps with flavor absorption.
- Add your root vegetables like potatoes and carrots next, as they take longer to cook.
- Place the softer vegetables like celery and onions on top, followed by the tomatoes.
- Finally, pour the broth over the top to combine everything.
This method not only maximizes flavor but also allows for better cooking dynamics in the slow cooker. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Crock Pot Hamburger Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
- 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Once everything is in the crock pot, it will cook for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a warm meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, stirring frequently to break it up. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat. This helps to keep the stew from being too greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Transfer the cooked ground beef to your crock pot. Now, add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, diced celery, undrained diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Give it all a gentle stir to mix everything together nicely.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour the beef broth over the mixture in the crock pot. Then, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried parsley, basil, oregano, and tomato paste if you decide to use it. Stir everything together until just combined.
4. Cook Your Stew:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This long cooking time allows all the flavors to meld wonderfully and the vegetables to become tender.
5. Taste and Serve:
Once cooking time is complete, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it hot, maybe with some crusty bread or crackers for dipping. If you like, sprinkle a bit more parsley on top for a nice touch!
This comforting Hamburger Stew is perfect for a chilly evening, filling the belly and warming the heart. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Leaner Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter dish. Just be aware that the flavor may be a bit milder, so consider enhancing the seasoning if needed!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Peas, green beans, or bell peppers make great additions. Just be mindful of their cooking times; add softer vegetables halfway through the cooking process to avoid mushiness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
