Jiffy Hamburger Stew
A hearty, comforting beef stew with mixed vegetables and tomato juice, perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean hamburger in a skillet; pour off excess fat.
- Cook the frozen mixed vegetables according to package directions.
- Add the cooked hamburger, tomato juice, and stewed tomatoes to a pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbling and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding diced potatoes or beans for additional texture and flavor. You can also substitute the lean hamburger with ground turkey or lentils for a healthier option. Feel free to season with herbs like oregano or basil for an extra flavor boost. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water before simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jiffy Hamburger Stew with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes for a comforting dinner option. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Consider a glass of red wine or a Champagne Cocktail to complement the hearty flavors.
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 medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jiffy Hamburger Stew contains roughly 349 calories, with 16g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (84% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 628mg per serving (27% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and add them to the skillet with the hamburger to ensure they cook properly. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, depending on the types of vegetables you choose.
Is this stew suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this stew is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and the flavors improve after sitting for a while. Prepare a large batch, divide it into individual portions, and refrigerate or freeze. Just reheat when you're ready to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I add spices to make it spicier?
Definitely! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even diced jalapeños to the stew. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your heat preference. This will give the dish an extra kick while still keeping it flavorful.
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).