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Grandma's Ground Beef Stew

A hearty and comforting stew filled with tender ground beef and fresh vegetables, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef Provides a rich, savory base.
  • 2 large carrots Peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  • 2 stalks celery Cut into 1-inch pieces.
  • 1 large onion Chopped for depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 lb potatoes Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 tbsp garlic Minced for aroma and flavor.
  • 1 large bay leaf Imparts herbal notes.
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme Adds earthy aroma.
  • 2 1/2 cups beef stock Liquid gold that ties flavors together.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Contributes tangy depth.
  • 1 packet brown gravy mix For quick thickening.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Used for additional thickening.
  • 1/2 cup water Helps to combine the flour.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add ground beef to a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook until browned and cooked through, then drain the grease.
  2. In the same saucepan, add olive oil, carrots, celery, and onions. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add minced garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add potatoes, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce. Raise the heat to boil for 5 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer. Add browned beef back, stir well, and cover. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until vegetables are fork-tender.
  6. Stir in brown gravy mix until dissolved. If not thickening, whisk flour and water in a bowl to form a slurry and stir it into the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
  7. Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving. Divide into bowls and serve hot.

Notes

Browning the beef properly enhances the flavor. You can add vegetables like peas or green beans for variation. A splash of red wine vinegar can brighten the stew.