Imagine a pot simmering on the stove, releasing the savory aroma of tender ground beef mingling with earthy mushrooms, sweet carrots, and aromatic onions.
The rich scent of thyme wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. This Ground Beef Mushroom Stew isn’t just a meal; it’s a heartwarming embrace that brings comfort and satisfaction.
It matters to me because it transforms ordinary ingredients into a delightful symphony of flavors, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or leisurely Sunday suppers.
I remember a hectic week when this stew came to my rescue, filling our home with warmth and providing a nourishing meal that brought us all to the table.
Ready? Let’s cook! This recipe will guide you through creating a dish that’s not only easy to make but also a joy to share with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a delightful blend of beef and mushrooms.
- Uses pantry staples for a convenient and quick meal preparation.
- Freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep and future meals.
- Provides a hearty, comforting dish suitable for any season.
- Offers a simple, one-pot cooking method for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil — use extra virgin for richer flavor
- 1 pound ground beef — choose lean cuts for less fat
- 1 large onion, diced — opt for yellow onions for sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — fresh garlic enhances aroma
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced — cremini mushrooms add earthiness
- 2 carrots, diced — guarantee uniform size for even cooking
- 2 stalks celery, diced — contributes to the stew’s base flavor
- 4 cups beef broth — low-sodium for control over saltiness
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes — fire-roasted for depth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme — fresh thyme can be used if available
- 1 teaspoon salt — adjust to taste as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground for best results
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour — helps thicken the stew
- 2 tablespoons water — needed to make the flour slurry
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped — adds freshness and color
Step-by-Step Method
Heat the Oil
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Confirm the oil is hot before proceeding to the next step. This will help in searing the meat properly, enhancing the flavor of the stew.
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. This step develops a deep, rich flavor base for the stew.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant. This step will infuse the stew with a robust aroma and a subtle sweetness.
Cook the Vegetables
Stir in sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the vegetables to soften slightly and release their flavors into the stew.
Add Broth & Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Confirm everything is well combined.
These ingredients form the liquid base that will meld the flavors together.
Return the Beef
Add the browned beef back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. This step reintroduces the beef’s flavors into the stew, allowing them to infuse with the other ingredients.
Thicken the Stew
In a small bowl, mix all-purpose flour with water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the stew while stirring continuously. This will thicken the stew, giving it a hearty and satisfying texture.
Simmer & Rest
Allow the stew to simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.
This resting period allows the flavors to meld further, enhancing the overall taste.
Garnish & Serve
Before serving, garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors of this Ground Beef Mushroom Stew.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter taste or to cater to dietary preferences.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the stew.
You Must Know
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mushrooms, carrots, and celery to guarantee the stew has the best flavor and texture.
Fresh parsley for garnish will also enhance the dish’s presentation and taste.
2. Brown the Beef: Make certain to brown the ground beef thoroughly before removing it from the pot.
This step adds depth and richness to the stew’s flavor profile.
3. Uniformly Dice Vegetables: Cut the onions, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces to guarantee they cook evenly.
This will help the stew to have a consistent texture throughout.
4. Create a Proper Slurry: Mix the flour and water thoroughly to avoid lumps before adding it to the stew.
This slurry will help thicken the stew, giving it a hearty consistency.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew after it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme as needed.
Flavors can change during cooking, so guarantee it meets your taste preferences before serving.
Serving Tips
- Serve the stew in deep bowls for a comforting presentation.
- Pair with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Accompany with a side salad for added texture and freshness.
- A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors of the stew.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Ground Beef Mushroom Stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
For make-ahead convenience, prepare the stew without adding the flour slurry.
Thicken it when reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To gently reheat the Ground Beef Mushroom Stew, use a microwave-safe dish for microwave reheating.
A covered pot over low heat can be used for stovetop reheating.
Alternatively, use a covered dish in the oven at 350°F.
Cultural Significance of Stews
The allure of stews lies in their rich tapestry of flavors and comforting warmth—a culinary tradition that transcends borders and time. Each spoonful tells a story of community, heritage, and the art of slow cooking.
Growing up, stews were a staple in my family’s kitchen, providing nourishment and a sense of togetherness. They’re more than just a meal; they’re an experience.
- Cultural Connections: Stews are a universal dish, with each culture adding its unique twist.
- Historical Roots: Ancient civilizations relied on stews for sustenance and flavor.
- Communal Meals: Stews often bring people together, whether around a fire or a dinner table.
- Seasonal Ingredients: They adapt to whatever’s fresh and available locally.
- Flavor Depth: Slow cooking allows flavors to meld into something truly special.
Let’s explore this timeless dish together!
Final Thoughts
Why not give this delightful Ground Beef Mushroom Stew a try and make it your own by adding your favorite herbs or spices?
We hope it becomes a comforting favorite in your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat Instead of Ground Beef?
I’d definitely swap in a different meat! Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter flavor, or even diced beef for a heartier feel. Just adjust cooking times slightly to guarantee everything’s cooked perfectly. Enjoy experimenting!
How Can I Make the Stew Spicier?
To spice up the stew, I’d add a dash of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. For a bolder flavor, a chopped jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce works wonders. Enjoy the heat!
Is It Possible to Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. I’d suggest peeling and dicing them before adding. The fresh taste adds a delightful, vibrant twist. Just adjust the cooking time to let them soften properly.
Can I Freeze the Stew for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze the stew for later! I always let it cool completely, transfer it to airtight containers, and label them. When you’re ready, just thaw and reheat for a comforting meal anytime.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With This Stew?
I love pairing this stew with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness. Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles also make delightful companions, absorbing the stew’s rich flavors.
Ground Beef Mushroom Stew
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 Stirring spoon
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 8 ounce mushrooms sliced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 stalk celery diced
- 4 cup beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Remove beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions and garlic and sauté until soft.
- Stir in mushrooms, carrots, and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, mix flour and water to create a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the stew and stir well to thicken.
- Simmer the stew for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
