Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew is a heartwarming and rustic dish, perfect for those chilly days when you desire comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Its simplicity and homecooked charm have made it a favorite in households looking for meals that are both nourishing and satisfying. Though the origins of hamburger stew are not well-documented, it likely evolved from the need to create filling and nutritious meals with readily available ingredients. With the advent of slow cookers, this dish has gained popularity due to its “set it and forget it” approach, which allows busy home cooks to enjoy a rich and flavorful stew without having to labor over the stove.
When serving Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew, the options for sides are near endless, as it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. A crusty loaf of bread or a side of garlic toast are excellent for dipping and sopping up the delicious juices. For a lighter touch, a crisp green salad can balance the heartiness of the stew. Some also enjoy serving it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice to create a more filling meal. Regardless of your choice, the stew itself often takes center stage with its savory beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth.
Slow Cooker Hamburger Stew Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 cup frozen corn
– 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions:
1. Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain off any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked ground beef to your slow cooker.
3. To the slow cooker, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato sauce.
5. Add the beef broth to the mixture and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil, giving it a good stir to evenly distribute the spices.
7. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
8. About 30 minutes before the stew is finished cooking, stir in the frozen corn and peas. This will heat them through without making them mushy.
9. Once the stew is done cooking and the vegetables are to your desired tenderness, give it a good stir and taste, adjusting seasonings if necessary.
10. Ladle the hearty stew into bowls and serve hot with your chosen sides. Enjoy!
