Microwave Hamburger Stew
A hearty and flavorful microwave hamburger stew combining ground beef, carrots, celery, and savory onion soup, perfect for quick, comforting meals for 4 to 6 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef coarsely into a 3 to 5-quart casserole.
- Mix in sliced carrots and celery.
- Cover and microwave on High for 3 1/2 to 6 1/2 minutes or until beef is set, stirring once or twice.
- Add hot water, instant rice, onion soup mix, and bay leaf.
- Microwave, covered, for 12 to 18 minutes, or until vegetables are tender, stirring once or twice.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives. You can also use brown rice instead of instant rice; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition, similar to how you might enhance Mitzi'S Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburger Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of Half Hour Meat Loaf, which complements the flavors nicely. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hamburger Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the stew thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Hamburger Stew contains roughly 622 calories, with 26g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (283% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), and iron (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 942mg per serving (41% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a healthier twist. Just ensure you adjust cooking times slightly, as different meats may require varying times to cook through. The flavor will change, but the dish will still be delicious.
What can I add to make this stew thicker?
To thicken your Hamburger Stew, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of water added initially or mash some of the cooked vegetables to create a thicker consistency.
Is it possible to make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just microwave it to reheat when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a hearty dish ready for busy weeknights.
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).