Hearty Hodge Podge Stew
A hearty, comforting stew with savory ground beef, beans, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for satisfying family dinners and cold weather cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onions, and minced garlic in a large pot until the beef is cooked through and onions are translucent.
- Add the pork and beans, vegetable soup, minestrone soup, water or vegetable soup, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano to the pot.
- Mix well and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey. You can also substitute the minestrone soup with any vegetable soup you prefer. If you want to enhance the flavor, a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick. Don't forget to adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if using canned soups that may be salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hearty hodge podge stew with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal. A simple side salad can add freshness, while pickles or coleslaw provide a nice crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like cornbread for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Hodge Podge Stew contains roughly 873 calories, with 12g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), and calcium (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 476mg per serving (21% 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 use other types of meat in this stew?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a different flavor profile, you could also try diced ham or sausage. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different meats may require adjustments.
Is it possible to make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this stew vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using lentils or a meat substitute. Replace the pork and beans with a variety of beans and increase the vegetables for added texture and nutrients.
How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?
If your stew turns out too watery, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and adding it to the pot. Let the stew simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, mashing some of the beans can also help achieve a thicker consistency.
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).