Ground Beef Stew: Hearty Comfort in a Bowl

Serving: This ground beef stew is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This stew also freezes well; simply store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop.
Variants:

Add Greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale to the stew during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
Spicy Version: For a bit of heat, stir in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground beef alternative for a vegetarian version of this stew.
FAQ:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this stew? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a substitute for fresh vegetables. Just add them to the pot in place of the fresh carrots, celery, and potatoes. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables cook faster than fresh.

2. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker? Absolutely! To make this stew in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

3. How can I make this stew thicker? If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes after they’ve cooked, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the stew. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your liking.

Ground Beef Stew is the perfect balance of savory flavors and comforting textures. It’s simple, filling, and makes for a fantastic meal that can easily be adjusted to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it to your family or enjoying it as leftovers, this stew is sure to satisfy your hunger and keep you warm on even the coldest days.