Savor the warmth of Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew, a delightful blend of russet potatoes, carrots, ground beef, and aromatic herbs. Infused with the rich flavors of stewed tomatoes, beef broth, and a hint of Worcestershire and soy sauce, this stew is the epitome of comforting, simple food.
A Taste of Nostalgia
Remember those chilly weekends at grandma’s, where the aroma of her special stew promised warmth and deliciousness? This Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew is my modern twist on her recipe, capturing the same love and comfort. As a busy parent, I rely on this recipe for hectic days, offering a nutritious, heartwarming meal with minimal fuss. The slow cooker works its magic, blending flavors perfectly, and it tastes even better the next day—making it a favorite for leftovers!
Why You’ll Love This Stew
- Effortless Preparation: Just chop, drop, and let the slow cooker do the work—perfect for busy days!
- Nutrient-Packed Comfort: Loaded with veggies and protein, it’s a balanced meal in a bowl.
- Versatile and Forgiving: Easily adaptable with various veggies or meats, great for cleaning out the fridge.
- Leftovers for Days: Tastes even better the next day, making meal prep a breeze.
Ingredients Notes
Gather your ingredients for a journey back to simpler times. Each component contributes unique flavors and textures:
- Russet Potatoes: Their starchy quality thickens the stew beautifully.
- Carrots: Add subtle sweetness and delightful crunch.
- Ground Beef: The hearty protein that gives the stew its rich character.
- Stewed Tomatoes & Beef Broth: Infuse depth and richness into the dish.
- Worcestershire & Soy Sauce: Add a savory, umami twist.
- Frozen Peas: For a pop of color and freshness added at the end.
How To Make This Stew
Let’s break down this stew into simple, foolproof steps for a scrumptious outcome every time:
- Prep the Veggies: Chop potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic, then toss them into the slow cooker. Sprinkle in rosemary, thyme, and pepper for a herby kick.
- Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat, then add it to the slow cooker with the stewed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire, and soy sauce to create a rich base.
- Mix It Up: Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring all flavors meld together. Set your slow cooker to high for a quicker stew or low for a leisurely simmer, depending on your schedule.
- Slow Cook: After hours of cooking, the flavors will have melded beautifully. Stir the stew, mashing some potatoes to thicken it to your liking.
- Add Peas: Introduce the frozen peas for a burst of freshness. Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve with a side of bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Storage Options
For those lucky enough to have leftovers, rejoice! This stew stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, making it ideal for weekday lunches. For longer storage, portion it into freezer-friendly containers. It keeps well for up to three months—just thaw, reheat, and relive the deliciousness.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this stew lies in its adaptability. Here are some creative twists to keep it exciting every time:
- Swap the Beef: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian crumble for variety.
- Veggie Variations: Add sweet potatoes, parsnips, or bell peppers for different flavors.
- Broth Options: Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for beef broth.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Needs: Use gluten-free soy sauce and Worcestershire to cater to dietary restrictions.
This Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, reminding you of the comforts of home. Enjoy!