Hearty Hodgepodge Stew
A hearty, comforting stew combining ground beef, vegetables, beans, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Rich in savory flavors and filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until tender.
- Stir in the condensed minestrone soup, pork and beans, 3 cups of water, chopped celery, Worcestershire sauce, and dried oregano.
- Simmer, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Do not add salt and pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots to the stew. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also use any type of canned soup you have on hand if you're low on minestrone. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This Hearty Hodgepodge Stew is perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. A side salad can add a fresh crunch to the hearty flavors. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with a simple dessert, like brownies, to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the stew has thickened. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish at medium power until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Hodgepodge Stew contains roughly 817 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (113% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and calcium (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using textured vegetable protein or a mix of beans and lentils.
How can I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) towards the end of cooking. Another option is to let the stew simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving can brighten up the stew. You could also include a splash of hot sauce or a tablespoon of tomato paste for a bolder taste.
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).