Chilis & Stews

Ground Beef And Potato Stew

Name: Ground Beef And Potato Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 2 medium onions, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

By Xenia Foxworth · June 19, 2026 · Chilis & Stews

Prep20 min

Cook40 min

Total60 min

Serves6

Ground Beef And Potato Stew — Hearty Ground Beef Stew

There's something about a warm, comforting bowl of stew that just feels like home, especially on a chilly evening. As someone who loves cooking hearty, comfort-food ground beef dinners, I've experimented with numerous recipes over the years, but this Ground Beef And Potato Stew remains a favorite. It's not just because it's easy to make, but also because it's incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit any taste.

I remember the first time I made this stew; it was a cold winter evening, and I was looking for something that would fill the house with warmth and aroma. After some trial and error, I finally landed on this recipe, which has since become a staple in our household. The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity and the fact that it can be prepared with basic pantry ingredients and ground beef, making it a budget-friendly option for weeknight dinners.

What makes this recipe special is the way the flavors meld together. The ground beef is browned to perfection, which adds a rich depth to the stew, while the potatoes and carrots provide a satisfying bite. The diced tomatoes and beef broth create a flavorful and slightly thickened sauce that coats every ingredient beautifully. It's a dish that's not only delicious but also comforting, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

This recipe is for anyone who loves a good stew but doesn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. It's designed to be easy to follow, with steps that are straightforward and require minimal supervision. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Ground Beef And Potato Stew is sure to become a favorite. So, let's dive into the details and explore what makes this recipe so special.

In the following sections, we'll cover the science behind why this stew turns out so well, the benefits of making it, and of course, the step-by-step guide to preparing it. We'll also discuss some variations and tips to help you make the most out of this recipe. So, let's get started and discover the joy of cooking a hearty, comforting stew that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal supervision once the ingredients are prepared.
It's a budget-friendly option for weeknight dinners, using affordable ground beef and common pantry ingredients.
The stew is very versatile and can be tailored to suit any taste by adding or substituting different vegetables or spices.
It's a comforting and delicious meal that's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
The recipe makes a large batch, which can be refrigerated or frozen for later, making it a great option for meal prep.
It's a hearty and satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone at the table, with its rich flavors and varied textures.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of this Ground Beef And Potato Stew can be attributed to a few key factors. First, the browning of the ground beef is crucial. This step not only adds flavor but also texture, as the browned bits (or fond) that stick to the bottom of the pan are deglazed and become part of the stew's sauce. Second, cooking the vegetables (especially the potatoes and carrots) until they're tender but still retain some bite is important. This ensures that the stew has a varied texture that's pleasing to eat.

Another important aspect is the layering of flavors. By using a combination of beef broth, diced tomatoes, and a bit of tomato paste, we achieve a rich and deep flavor profile that's not overwhelming but rather comforting and familiar. The seasoning, particularly the use of thyme and rosemary, adds a herbal note that complements the beef and vegetables beautifully.

Lastly, the resting time after cooking allows the flavors to meld together even more, and the stew to thicken slightly, making it more enjoyable to eat. This step is often overlooked but is crucial for the overall quality of the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to the ingredients for this Ground Beef And Potato Stew, the key is to use high-quality components that will add depth and flavor to the dish. Look for fresh vegetables and lean ground beef to ensure the best taste and texture. Also, don't forget to have some basic pantry staples on hand, such as olive oil, salt, and pepper, as they form the foundation of the stew's flavor profile.

A shopping tip is to buy your ingredients in bulk when possible, especially the canned goods and spices, as they can be used in a variety of dishes beyond this stew. For the ground beef, opt for an 80/20 or 85/15 lean to fat ratio for the best flavor and texture.

1 lb (450g) ground beefOpt for an 80/20 or 85/15 lean to fat ratio for the best flavor and texture. This ratio ensures that the stew will be flavorful without being too greasy.
2 medium onions, choppedUse sweet onions like Vidalia for a sweeter flavor, or yellow onions for a more savory taste. Onions add a depth of flavor and texture to the stew.
3 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder as a substitute, but fresh garlic provides a more vibrant taste.
2 medium carrots, peeled and choppedLook for carrots that are firm and have a deep orange color for the best flavor and texture. Carrots add a pop of color and sweetness to the stew.
2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and choppedChoose high-starch potatoes like Russet for a lighter, fluffier texture. These potatoes will absorb the flavors of the stew beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoesSan Marzano or similar varieties offer a richer, less acidic flavor. Diced tomatoes add a burst of juicy flavor and help to create a rich, thickened sauce.
2 cups beef brothUse low-sodium broth to control the salt content of the stew. You can also use homemade broth for added depth of flavor. Beef broth provides the base for the stew's sauce and helps to cook the ingredients to perfection.
1 tsp dried thymeFresh thyme can be used as a substitute, but dried thyme provides a more concentrated flavor. Thyme adds a herbal note that complements the beef and vegetables beautifully.
1 tsp dried rosemaryLike thyme, rosemary can be used fresh or dried, but dried rosemary is more convenient and has a longer shelf life. Rosemary adds a piney flavor that enhances the overall aroma of the stew.
1/2 tsp saltUse kosher salt for its mild flavor and ease of use. Salt helps to bring out the flavors of the ingredients and adds depth to the stew.
1/4 tsp black pepperFreshly ground pepper offers the best flavor. Pepper adds a subtle kick and helps to balance the flavors of the stew.
2 tbsp olive oilChoose a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. Olive oil is used for browning the ground beef and cooking the vegetables, and it adds a rich, fruity flavor to the stew.

Ingredients for Ground Beef And Potato Stew

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Ground Beef And Potato Stew

1
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This step is crucial for browning the ground beef and adding flavor to the stew.
2
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until it is browned, about 5-7 minutes. The browning process adds a rich, deep flavor to the stew and helps to create a satisfying texture.
3
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate. Leave the drippings in the pot to add flavor to the next steps.
4
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Then, add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. The onions add a sweet, depth of flavor to the stew and help to create a rich, thickened sauce.
5
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Garlic adds a pungent flavor and helps to enhance the overall aroma of the stew.
6
Add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the pot, cooking for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften. The carrots and potatoes add a pop of color and texture to the stew, and they help to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7
Add the browned ground beef back into the pot, along with the diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil.
8
Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. The simmering process helps to meld the flavors together and create a rich, thickened sauce.
9
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the stew. The temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the ingredients are cooked to a safe temperature.
10
Remove the pot from the heat and let the stew rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld together and the stew to thicken slightly, making it more enjoyable to eat.
11
Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.

Expert Tips

Always brown the ground beef well to add depth of flavor to the stew.
Use a variety of vegetables to add texture and flavor to the stew.
Don't overcook the stew, as it can become dry and unappetizing.
Let the stew rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices to find the combination that you like best.
Consider making a large batch of the stew and freezing it for later use.
Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and lean ground beef, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Don't be afraid to add your own favorite ingredients to the stew to make it more personalized.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not browning the ground beef properly, which can result in a lack of flavor in the stew.
Overcooking the stew, which can make it dry and unappetizing.
Not using enough liquid in the stew, which can result in a thick, unappetizing consistency.
Not seasoning the stew enough, which can result in a bland flavor.
Not letting the stew rest before serving, which can result in a less flavorful and less textured dish.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can result in a less flavorful and less textured dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the stew for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add some diced ham or bacon to the stew for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of broth, such as chicken or vegetable broth, for a unique flavor.
Add some frozen peas or corn to the stew for a burst of color and flavor.
Use different types of seasonings, such as paprika or cumin, for a unique flavor.
Serve the stew over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a more filling meal.

What to Serve With Ground Beef And Potato Stew

This Ground Beef And Potato Stew is perfect for serving on a chilly evening, perhaps with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a comforting meal that's sure to please everyone at the table. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

For a more casual gathering, serve the stew in individual bowls and offer a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions. This allows each person to customize their meal to their liking and adds a fun, interactive element to the dining experience.

Serve with crusty breadServe over mashed potatoesServe with a simple green saladServe with roasted vegetables

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Ground Beef And Potato Stew can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To refrigerate, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer.

To reheat the stew, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until it's hot and steaming. You can also reheat it in the oven, covered, at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's hot and steaming.

When reheating the stew, make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent scorching. You can also add a little bit of water or broth to thin out the stew if it's become too thick during refrigeration or freezing.

In addition to refrigerating or freezing the stew, you can also make it in a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this stew in a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, you can freeze this stew. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat this stew?

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this stew ahead of time. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew is perfect for serving with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I customize this stew to my taste?

Yes, you can customize this stew to your taste. Consider adding your favorite ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, or using different types of broth or seasonings.

Is this stew suitable for a large group?

Yes, this stew is perfect for a large group. Simply multiply the ingredients to make a larger batch, and serve it in individual bowls or over mashed potatoes.

Can I make this stew in a Dutch oven?

Yes, you can make this stew in a Dutch oven. Simply brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables in the Dutch oven, then add the remaining ingredients and cook, covered, over low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

The Full Recipe

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