Quick Hamburger Stew
A hearty, flavorful hamburger stew with tender rice and savory tomatoes, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in melted fat or salad oil for about 5 minutes.
- Add hamburger meat and cook until lightly brown, stirring frequently.
- Add uncooked rice, canned tomatoes, sugar, chili powder, and water to the meat and onion mixture.
- Cover with a tight-fitting lid.
- Cook over low heat for about 25 minutes or until rice is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onion or adding bell peppers. If you prefer a thicker stew, use less water or add an extra tablespoon of rice. Brown rice can be used instead of white, but adjust the cooking time. If you don’t have chili powder, a mix of cumin and paprika can also work well. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to fit various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hamburger stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a slice of Tomato And Pepper Quiche or a bowl of Grace Church 12-Bean Soup for a comforting combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it appears dry. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. This stew can also be frozen; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Hamburger Stew contains roughly 881 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1333mg per serving (58% 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 ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for hamburger meat in this stew. The cooking times will remain the same, but you may want to season the meat a bit more since poultry is milder in flavor. This swap will make the dish lighter while still being hearty.
What kind of rice works best in this recipe?
White rice is the traditional choice for this stew as it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. However, brown rice can also be used for a healthier option, but it will require a longer cooking time—approximately 40-50 minutes—so adjust the water accordingly.
How can I make this stew vegetarian?
To make this stew vegetarian, substitute the hamburger meat with plant-based protein like lentils or black beans. You can also add more vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers for added texture and nutrition. Use vegetable broth instead of water for enhanced flavor.
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).