Grandma Ever'S Refrigerator Stew
A hearty, rustic stew brimming with tender carrots, celery, cabbage, and beef—rich tomato juice ties it all together, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine carrots, celery, onions, cabbage, potatoes, and hamburger in an electric skillet or Dutch oven.
- Add a can of stewed tomatoes if desired, then pour in enough tomato juice to cover the ingredients.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider browning the hamburger before adding it to the pot. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have stewed tomatoes on hand, diced tomatoes or even tomato paste mixed with water can work. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for variety. This dish is perfect for using up leftover veggies from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma Ever's Refrigerator Stew with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. A side salad or steamed green beans can complement the dish well. For a heartier option, pair it with Pork Chops O'Brien-Beverly Slimm. This stew also makes for great leftovers, as the flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to stir and ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Ever'S Refrigerator Stew contains roughly 578 calories, with 10g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (106% of the Daily Value), and potassium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 666mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, you can freeze Grandma Ever's Refrigerator Stew for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of tomato juice if it appears too thick.
What can I serve with this stew?
This stew pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or hearty bread for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a creamy coleslaw or roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Jackie'S Baked Beans.
Can I add different types of meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for hamburger, you can mix in sausage, shredded chicken, or even diced beef for a different take. Just ensure any raw meat is cooked through before serving, and adjust cooking times as needed for denser cuts.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).