Savory Ground Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that will warm you from the inside out. Packed with flavors and nutrients, this stew is an excellent option for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth, it truly represents the essence of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re coming in from a chilly day or just looking for something satisfying to share around the dinner table, this stew is sure to please.
Why We Love This Savory Ground Beef Stew Recipe
One of the main reasons this Savory Ground Beef Stew stands out among other comfort foods is its ease of preparation. Using simple ingredients that are often found in your pantry, it allows you to create a filling meal without a lot of fuss. The ground beef provides rich flavor and texture, while the potatoes and tomatoes add heartiness and natural sweetness. This recipe is also highly customizable, meaning you can tweak it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. The resulting dish is not just nourishing but also economical, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients about Savory Ground Beef Stew
Here’s everything you need to recreate this comforting dish:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can green chiles (4 oz)
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make Savory Ground Beef Stew Directions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial as it will help release the flavors of the onions and garlic that you’ll add next.
- Once the oil is hot, throw in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened and translucent. This fragrant combination sets the aromatic foundation of your stew.
- Next, it’s time to add the ground beef. Crumble it in the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. You’ll want to cook the beef for around 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it browns completely and no pink remains. This ensures that the meat is cooked through and ready to meld with the other ingredients.
- After the beef is browned, incorporate the diced potatoes into the pot. The potatoes will absorb the flavors as they cook, adding a satisfying texture to the stew.
- Add the green chiles and the can of diced tomatoes (including their juices) to the pot. The chiles bring a delightful kick of heat, while the tomatoes provide acidity and richness.
- Pour in the beef broth next. This is the liquid that ties everything together, creating a savory base for your stew.
- Season the mixture with cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the spices.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and allow it to simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking time allows the flavors to develop and the potatoes to become tender.
- After 30 minutes, check the potatoes for doneness. If they are fork-tender, your stew is ready. Serve it hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs, and enjoy the warmth and flavor that this stew offers.
How to Serve Savory Ground Beef Stew
Serving your Savory Ground Beef Stew can be just as enjoyable as making it. The stew is a meal in itself, but you can easily enhance the experience with some thoughtful accompaniments. Consider serving your stew with thick slices of crusty bread; this not only helps soak up the delicious broth but also adds a satisfying texture to each bite. Alternatively, you can pair it with a simple green salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the stew.
Another great option is to serve the stew over a bed of rice or quinoa. This not only elevates the dish but also makes it more filling. If you want to keep things cozy, consider topping each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Remember, the best way to enjoy this stew is to eat it warm and share it with loved ones, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or family dinners.
Expert Tips: Savory Ground Beef Stew
To make the most out of your Savory Ground Beef Stew, here are some expert tips you should consider:
- browning the beef: Ensure you adequately brown the ground beef. This step is crucial as it enhances the meat’s flavor and gives it a nice texture. Don’t rush this process.
- cutting the vegetables: Cut your potatoes and other vegetables into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender at the same time.
- spice adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding additional red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños.
- add a bay leaf: Tossing in a bay leaf while the stew simmers can add depth to the flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!
- let it sit: If you have time, let the stew sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator after cooking. The flavors will deepen and meld beautifully.
How to Store Savory Ground Beef Stew
Storing your Savory Ground Beef Stew is easy and can help it last for several days. Allow the stew to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. To freeze, pour the cooled stew into a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variation of Savory Ground Beef Stew
The beauty of the Savory Ground Beef Stew lies in its versatility. Here are some variations you might consider trying:
- vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. These alternatives will provide a hearty texture without the meat. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
- extra veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, corn, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.
- spicy kick: For a spicier stew, add hot sauce or use spicy beef broth. You can also add diced jalapeños for an extra punch.
- herb variations: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to elevate the aroma and flavor. Dried herbs can also be used if fresh isn’t available.
- creamy texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for a creamy twist on this classic dish.
Frequently Asked Questions about Savory Ground Beef Stew
What type of beef is best for ground beef stew?
Ground beef works perfectly for this recipe, but you can also use a mix of ground meats for different flavors, such as turkey or lamb.
How long does it take to cook Savory Ground Beef Stew?
The initial cooking time is about 30 minutes, but you can simmer it longer for even richer flavors.
Can I use frozen vegetables in Savory Ground Beef Stew?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t become too mushy.
Is Savory Ground Beef Stew gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
How can I make Savory Ground Beef Stew spicier?
To make it spicier, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños according to your heat tolerance.
Now you’re ready to savor the warm, comforting embrace of this Savory Ground Beef Stew. Enjoy your cooking adventure and share this delightful meal with your family and friends!
Savory Ground Beef Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Provides rich flavor and texture.
- 1 can green chiles (4 oz) Adds a delightful kick of heat.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced Adds heartiness.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) Provides acidity and richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Enhances the flavor base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aroma.
- 2 cups beef broth Creates a savory base.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon cumin Seasoning for depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Basic seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper Basic seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Crumble in the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned.
- Incorporate the diced potatoes into the pot.
- Add the green chiles and diced tomatoes (including their juices) to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth and season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Check the potatoes for doneness. If fork-tender, serve hot.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!