Budget‑Friendly Beef Stew Using Ground Beef

If you love the comfort of beef stew but want something affordable, this budget‑friendly beef stew using ground beef is your answer. It still hits that rich, hearty mark, but uses ground meat instead of chunks — making it quicker, simpler, and easier on your wallet. Below you’ll find the complete recipe, tips and tricks, variations, serving ideas, and answers to questions so it turns out delicious every time.

Why This Version Works So Well

Affordable Without Compromising Flavor

Chunk beef can be expensive and take longer to cook. Ground beef gives you the beef flavor and texture you want, while simmering with vegetables and broth gives depth. With smart seasoning, you’ll hardly notice the difference—just that your wallet is happier.

Quicker Cooking Time

Because ground beef cooks faster than large cuts, you spend less time waiting. This version is fantastic for weeknights when you want warmed comfort without all the timing stress.

Ingredients & Prep Notes

Ingredient List

• 1½ lbs ground beef (lean or regular)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups beef broth or water + bouillon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Prep Tips Before You Start

• Brown the ground beef first, letting you render fat and build flavor.
• Drain excess fat unless you want it for richness.
• Chop vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off excess fat if desired.

2. Sauté Aromatics & Build Base

1. Add chopped onion, garlic, and celery to the pot with the beef. Sauté until softened.
2. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and thyme. Cook 1–2 minutes to enhance aroma.
3. Add diced tomatoes (with juices) and stir.

3. Add Vegetables & Liquid, Simmer

1. Add carrots, potatoes, and bay leaf.
2. Pour in beef broth (or water + bouillon) to just cover ingredients.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are tender and stew is flavorful.

4. Final Touches & Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for full comfort.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

Smart Tips for Best Results

• Don’t skip browning—it adds essential flavor.
• If stew is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
• For thicker stew, mash a few potato bits against the pot’s side.

Variations to Try

• Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef.
• Add a touch of cinnamon or smoked paprika for warmth.
• Stir in frozen peas or green beans in last 5 minutes for color and nutrition.
• Use sweet potatoes in part for variation and a touch of sweetness.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

This stew is comforting on its own, but shines with a side of cornbread, toasted sandwich, or steamed greens. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa to stretch portions and add texture.

Leftovers store well for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens. You can freeze portions for up to 3 months—thawed stew may need a little extra liquid when reheating.

FAQ

Is ground beef really good in stew?

Yes. It gives you beef flavor with faster cooking and better affordability. You won’t get big chunks, but you’ll get comforting texture.

Will the vegetables overcook?

If cut evenly and timed properly, they should stay just tender. Keep an eye on them and stir gently.

Can I make this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Sure! For slow cooker: after browning, transfer stew to crockpot and cook on LOW 5–6 hours. For Instant Pot: sauté then pressure cook on HIGH 20 minutes.

Conclusion

This budget-friendly beef stew using ground beef offers all the comfort of a traditional stew with less cost and quicker time. It’s perfect for weeknights, tight budgets, or when you want something hearty without fuss.

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