Why Make This Recipe
Ground beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you up on chilly days. It is simple to make and uses easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a family dinner. The flavors blend beautifully as the stew simmers, creating a delicious meal that everyone will love.
How to Make Ground Beef Stew
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the carrots and potatoes.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and add the bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stew
Serve the ground beef stew hot, either on its own or with some crusty bread. It makes a perfect meal by itself, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad for added freshness.
How to Store Ground Beef Stew
You can store leftover ground beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Stew
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can also add other vegetables, like peas or green beans, for variety.
Variation (If Any)
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef. This will give the stew a different flavor while keeping it healthy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs. Just use three times the amount of fresh herbs to get a similar flavor.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the ground beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew is too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Ground Beef Stew
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the carrots and potatoes.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and add the bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.