Imagine a steaming bowl of ground beef tomato stew, its vibrant colors of rich crimson tomatoes and emerald peas promising a comforting embrace.
The stew’s aroma—a savory blend of herbs and hearty beef—fills the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm blanket on a chilly evening.
This dish holds a special place in my heart, as it has been my go-to recipe for those hectic weeknights when time is short yet the desire for a nourishing meal is strong.
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely Sunday supper, this stew fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
Once, when my family was caught in the whirlwind of work and school commitments, this stew came to the rescue, providing a delicious, home-cooked meal without the stress.
Ready? Let’s cook this satisfying and soul-warming dish together!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with aromatic herbs and a rich tomato base.
- Uses pantry staples like canned tomatoes and dried herbs for convenience.
- Freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Provides hearty satisfaction with nutritious vegetables and tender beef.
- Requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef — choose lean for less fat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil — extra virgin preferred for flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped — use fresh for better taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — fresh garlic enhances aroma.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced — opt for organic if available.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes — no-salt-added recommended.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste — look for concentrated paste.
- 1 cup beef broth — homemade or low-sodium ideal.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano — crush before adding for extra aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil — organic for a stronger flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste — adjust after simmering for balance.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce — adds depth to the stew.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced — waxy potatoes hold shape.
- 1 cup frozen peas — thaw briefly before adding.
Step-by-Step Method
Heat the Olive Oil
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Make sure the oil coats the bottom evenly. This helps prevent sticking and provides an even sauté for the ingredients.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, typically about 2-3 minutes.
Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic, which can add bitterness to the stew.
Brown the Ground Beef
Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
This should take around 5-7 minutes. Browning enhances the flavor profile of the stew by adding depth and umami.
Add Red Bell Pepper
Add the diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the pepper to soften slightly.
This step incorporates sweetness and a slight crunch, adding texture to the stew.
Incorporate Tomatoes and Paste
Mix in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
The tomatoes add acidity, while the paste enhances the tomato flavor, providing a rich base for the stew.
Pour in Beef Broth
Pour the beef broth into the pot. Stir to make certain all ingredients are well combined.
The broth adds moisture and depth to the stew, creating a hearty and comforting base.
Season the Stew
Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce as well.
These seasonings enhance the overall flavor, creating complexity and balance in the dish.
Simmer with Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Cover and let the stew simmer for 20 minutes.
This allows the potatoes to become tender and absorb the flavorful broth, thickening the stew naturally.
Finish with Peas
Stir in the frozen peas. Cook for another 5 minutes.
The peas add a pop of color and sweetness, balancing the savory notes of the stew.
Rest and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Resting allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- If looking for a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- To cut costs, use canned or fresh tomatoes in place of the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and consider substituting chicken or vegetable broth for beef broth if those are more readily available.
You Must Know
- Chop Ingredients Evenly: Confirm that the onion, red bell pepper, and potatoes are chopped evenly to promote uniform cooking and flavor distribution throughout the stew.
- Brown Ground Beef Thoroughly: When cooking the ground beef, allow it to brown completely before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the stew’s depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Use Fresh Spices: For a more vibrant flavor, use freshly dried oregano and basil. Their aromatic oils will contribute considerably to the stew’s overall taste.
- Simmer for Full Flavor: Let the stew simmer for at least 20 minutes with the lid on to allow the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld properly.
- Adjust Seasoning at the End: After simmering, taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This confirms that the seasoning is balanced and to your liking.
Serving Tips
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich stew sauce.
- Pair with a side salad for a revitalizing contrast.
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a complementary flavor.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Ground Beef Tomato Stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For make-ahead convenience, prepare the stew a day in advance. This enhances the flavors.
The stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To gently reheat Ground Beef Tomato Stew, use a microwave on medium power.
An oven set to 325°F or a stovetop on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Culinary Traditions and Origins
While you might think of beef stew as a quintessentially American comfort food, it actually has roots that stretch across various cultures and traditions.
Imagine the warmth of a French pot-au-feu or the rich spices of Moroccan tagine. Each version tells a story of its origin, blending local flavors and ingredients.
My ground beef tomato stew reflects this global tapestry, capturing the heartiness of American cuisine while nodding to Old World influences.
Consider the use of oregano and basil, reminiscent of Italian kitchens where aromatic herbs mingle with hearty ingredients. The Worcestershire sauce hints at British contributions, adding depth and umami.
This stew becomes a culinary bridge, inviting you to taste a little history and tradition with every spoonful. It’s a delicious journey you’ll savor.
Final Thoughts
Give this Ground Beef Tomato Stew a try for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week! Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Leftover Ground Beef Tomato Stew?
Absolutely, you can freeze leftover stew! I always make extra to savor later. Just cool it down, then transfer to airtight containers. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat for a comforting meal. Enjoy!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With This Stew?
I’d recommend pairing the stew with freshly baked crusty bread or a soft, buttery cornbread. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements it beautifully, too. These sides enhance the hearty flavors and complete the meal.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Slow Cookers?
I’d say yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies beforehand, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a delicious meal.
How Can I Make This Stew Spicier?
To spice up the stew, I’d add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Enjoy experimenting!
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables for Peas?
Absolutely, you can switch out peas for your favorite veggies! I love using green beans or corn for extra crunch and sweetness. Experiment with what you have on hand; it’s a great way to personalize your dish!
Ground Beef Tomato Stew
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Add the diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Mix in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the diced potatoes, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the frozen peas, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
