Ground Beef and Veggie Stew
Highlighted under: Ultimate Comfort Bites
I love making this Ground Beef and Veggie Stew on chilly nights when comfort food is a must. With tender ground beef simmered alongside vibrant vegetables, it’s both hearty and healthy. The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that warms the soul. I find that adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami notes, making each bite more satisfying. This stew is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time, and it’s a hit with my family. You’ll want to keep this recipe close for those cozy evenings!
When I first created this Ground Beef and Veggie Stew, I wanted a recipe that would bring a taste of home to my table during the colder months. The combination of ground beef and seasonal vegetables was a no-brainer, but I experimented with spices to find the perfect balance. One of my favorite tips is to use fresh herbs at the end for a burst of flavor.
I often serve this stew with crusty bread, which makes it a complete meal. I've also tried adding a splash of red wine, which gives it an extra layer of depth. This recipe is truly versatile and can be adjusted based on the veggies you have on hand!
Why You Will Love This Stew
- Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family
- Loaded with nutritious vegetables for a healthy meal
- Comforting flavors that make you feel at home
Perfecting the Meat and Veggie Balance
The combination of ground beef and vegetables creates a balanced dish in both flavor and nutrition. Ground beef adds rich umami depth while packing in protein, making the stew filling and satisfying. I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish healthy without losing the flavor. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, but keep in mind that they may not impart the same level of richness.
The vegetables play a crucial role in this stew, contributing both texture and bursts of flavor. Carrots add sweetness and color, while onions and garlic provide a foundational flavor that elevates the dish. Celery offers a subtle crunch and earthiness. To boost the nutritional profile, consider adding other veggies like peas or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking. Just be sure to cut your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Simmering Techniques for Depth of Flavor
Simmering is essential for developing the rich, comforting flavors typical of a good stew. When you bring your mixture to a boil and then lower the heat, you're allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully over time. Make sure to stir occasionally and scrape the bottom to prevent any sticking, which can lead to burnt flavors that might ruin your otherwise delicious stew. Simmering for at least 30 minutes helps break down the meat and vegetables, creating a luscious, cohesive texture.
If you're short on time, you can speed up the cooking process by using a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot. After browning the beef and sautéing your vegetables, you can add all other ingredients and cook at high pressure for about 15 minutes, followed by a quick release. This method retains the flavors while significantly cutting down cooking time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Ground Beef and Veggies
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes.
Add Garlic and Veggies
Stir in the garlic and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly.
Simmer the Stew
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve and Enjoy
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, ideally with some crusty bread.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the stew. This will enhance the overall depth of flavor.
Customize Your Stew
This Ground Beef and Veggie Stew is incredibly versatile, letting you customize it to suit seasonal produce or your family's tastes. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can dissolve a tablespoon of cornstarch in cold water and add it during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to thicken beautifully.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cuts of meat either; chuck or stew meat can give you a rich flavor. Just remember that these meat cuts typically need more time to simmer until they’re tender, so plan for a longer cooking time if you make this substitution.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This stew is a fantastic candidate for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you’d like to store it for longer, consider freezing it in portions after it has cooled. It can last for about three months in the freezer, retaining its delicious flavors and textures well. Just be sure to label your containers with the date for easy identification.
When reheating, the stew can be warmed on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. If it seems too thick, just add a splash of broth or water as needed. Microwaving in short bursts is also an efficient option, just ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
→ How long does this stew last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the stew?
Absolutely! It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it cool before packing into airtight containers.
→ What side dishes pair well with this stew?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Ground Beef and Veggie Stew
I love making this Ground Beef and Veggie Stew on chilly nights when comfort food is a must. With tender ground beef simmered alongside vibrant vegetables, it’s both hearty and healthy. The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that warms the soul. I find that adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami notes, making each bite more satisfying. This stew is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time, and it’s a hit with my family. You’ll want to keep this recipe close for those cozy evenings!
What You'll Need
Ground Beef and Veggies
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper softens slightly.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, ideally with some crusty bread.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the stew. This will enhance the overall depth of flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g