If you crave a cozy, rustic meal that warms you from the inside out, Hearty Campfire Stew is your new kitchen hero! This delicious stew boasts tender chunks of beef, wholesome veggies, and cozy spices, guaranteeing comfort in every spoonful. With its roots in simple outdoor cooking, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Did you know that campfire stews were once the staple of cowboys trekking the trails or families gathering around a weekend fire? That rugged spirit is alive in every bite, but you don’t need to be outdoors to enjoy it! This stew is a breeze to make, takes only a handful of pantry staples, and is sure to please everyone at the table. If you’ve tried my “Easy Beef Pot Pie,” you’ll notice the same homey flavors—except this stew is even simpler and faster. The anticipation of those bubbling aromas fill your home, making dinner time something to look forward to. Ready to cozy up with this family favorite? Let’s dive in!
What is Hearty Campfire Stew?
So, what exactly is Hearty Campfire Stew? Well, besides being a mouthful of comfort, it’s a rustic stew designed to satisfy hungry bellies after a day of adventure (or, you know, surviving a Monday). Ever wondered why it’s named for the campfire—even if you’re cooking it in your cozy kitchen? Tradition says that the best stews were always those simmered over open flames, tossed together with whatever was on hand. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—but we say this stew goes straight to everyone’s heart! Next time you’re craving comfort food that feels like a hug, grab your pot and give this one a try. You’ll see why families return to this recipe, time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This
This Hearty Campfire Stew stands out for three irresistible reasons. First, it’s truly a one-pot wonder, layered with juicy ground beef, tender vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a tomato-rich broth that simmers everything together in a blanket of flavor. Making it at home means saving money and enjoying a homemade meal for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant stew or canned soup—plus, you get to choose the freshest ingredients. What’s the star of the show? Smoked paprika and corn chunks bring a sweet, earthy depth, making each spoonful uniquely satisfying. If you’re a fan of my “Easy Vegetable Soup,” you’ll appreciate the robust flavors here, as well as the quick cleanup (hello, one-pot magic!). Gather your loved ones and experience why this recipe is such a crowd-pleaser—you won’t regret it!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Hearty Campfire Stew is delightfully easy to prepare. It’s a classic set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers big, bold flavors with simple ingredients. You’ll love how the savory beef mingles with fork-tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and the snap of corn and green beans—all bathed in a savory broth kissed with tomato and smoked paprika. The entire dish comes together in about 45 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or meal-prep favorite.
Ingredients
To whip up this soul-warming stew, here’s all you need:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 small golden potatoes, halved
2 carrots, sliced
1/2 cup green peas
1/2 cup green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 corn cobs, cut into chunks
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until it turns translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned on all sides and no pink remains. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Toss in the potatoes, carrots, green peas, green beans, and corn. Stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika over the mixture and pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Mix everything together, ensuring the vegetables are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you like.
What to Serve Hearty Campfire Stew With
This stew pairs perfectly with thick slices of crusty bread—perfect for dunking and soaking up every drop of the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad balances the meal with a refreshing crunch, while a side of buttery cornbread offers a sweet complement to the savory stew. For drinks, try a glass of red wine for adults or warm spiced apple cider for all ages. Don’t forget a simple dessert like apple pie or chocolate brownies to round out your campfire-inspired feast!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- For extra flavor, swap ground beef for ground turkey or even chuck roast cut into small cubes.
- Use baby carrots for quicker prep, or try sweet potatoes for a nutrient-rich twist.
- To add heat, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Frozen veggies work perfectly—it’s a great shortcut when you’re short on time.
- Avoid overcooking—the potatoes should be just tender to avoid turning the stew mushy.
- For a thicker stew, mash a few pieces of potato directly in the pot before serving.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the flavors.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, simply place the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If the stew thickens too much on standing, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors get even better after a day in the fridge. Just reheat on the stove and enjoy.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can substitute regular paprika or add a tiny dash of liquid smoke to mimic the flavor.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your beef broth and tomato sauce are gluten-free, this stew contains no gluten.
Conclusion
Hearty Campfire Stew proves that comfort food can be delicious, wholesome, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family after a busy day or looking for a nostalgic taste of outdoor adventure, this stew delivers all the warmth and satisfaction you could hope for. Don’t forget its affordability and versatility make it a must-try—just like all my family favorites! Ready to create a new staple in your kitchen? Gather your ingredients, and let Hearty Campfire Stew become a cherished part of your household menu. Happy cooking!
Hearty Campfire Stew
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 4 small Golden Potatoes, halved
- 2 medium Carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup Green Peas
- 1/2 cup Green Beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cobs Corn, cut into chunks
- 1.5 cups Beef Broth
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until it turns translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned on all sides and no pink remains. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Toss in the potatoes, carrots, green peas, green beans, and corn. Stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika over the mixture and pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Mix everything together, ensuring the vegetables are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you like.