Introduction
This hearty beef, potato, and noodle stew is the kind of dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table with every spoonful. The rich broth, the softness of the potatoes, and the tender noodles come together with flavorful ground beef to create a meal that feels both traditional and satisfying. As everything simmers slowly in one pot, the ingredients release their aromas and blend into a thick, savory stew that fills the kitchen with a home-cooked smell. This recipe is ideal for families, easy weeknight dinners, or anyone who enjoys simple meals made with everyday ingredients. Its texture becomes even better as it rests, making it one of those dishes that taste just as good the next day. The long simmering process brings depth to the flavors, making every ingredient stand out while still staying perfectly balanced.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into medium cubes
- 1 cup thin noodles or broken spaghetti
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large tomato chopped or 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 6 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
Preparation Steps
Begin by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and start browning it slowly. Break the meat apart with a spoon, allowing it to cook evenly and release its natural juices. Continue cooking until the liquid begins to evaporate and the beef develops a rich color and a slightly caramelized aroma. This step helps build the foundation of the stew.
Add the finely chopped onion and let it soften while stirring occasionally. The onion will blend with the beef and help thicken the mixture naturally as it cooks. Add the minced garlic and cook for a short moment until the aroma becomes noticeable. Garlic adds depth to the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Add the chopped tomato or crushed tomatoes, followed by the tomato paste. Stir thoroughly so the tomato mixture coats the entire beef base. Add paprika, black pepper, salt, and oregano, making sure the spices mix evenly. Let this mixture cook for several minutes so the flavors come together and the tomato paste gets a deeper, richer color.
Add the cubed potatoes into the pot and pour in the six cups of water or broth. Stir everything gently so the ingredients are well distributed. Raise the heat until the pot reaches a boil, then reduce it to medium-low so the stew can simmer quietly. Let it cook for around twenty minutes, or until the potatoes become soft when tested with a fork. During this time, the stew will start to thicken naturally as the potatoes begin to release their starch.
Once the potatoes have softened, add the noodles or broken spaghetti. Stir well to ensure the noodles do not clump together. Let the stew simmer again, allowing the noodles to cook fully and absorb the flavors of the broth. This usually takes around eight to ten minutes. As the noodles soften, the stew becomes thicker and heartier, creating its signature texture.
Taste the stew and adjust the salt or spices if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, continue simmering with the lid off for a few additional minutes. If you want a lighter stew, add a small amount of water or broth. When everything reaches the perfect tenderness and the broth has reduced to a flavorful, rich base, remove the pot from the heat and let the stew rest briefly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew hot in generous portions. It pairs wonderfully with warm bread or rolls, allowing you to scoop up the flavorful broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can bring brightness to each serving. For a richer finish, a small drizzle of olive oil on top of each bowl works beautifully. This dish can also be enjoyed with a simple salad on the side for a balanced meal.
Tips
Simmering the stew a bit longer will give it a thicker texture. Using beef broth instead of water deepens the flavor. Adding carrots, peas, or bell peppers provides color and extra nutrition. For added heat, include a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Allowing the stew to rest for ten minutes before serving enhances its thickness and overall taste.
Variations
You can switch the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas. If you prefer a version without noodles, add more potatoes or substitute rice instead. Adding basil, thyme, or a splash of lemon juice can introduce different flavor profiles. This stew also freezes well, making it a practical meal for busy days.
Conclusion
This hearty beef, potato, and noodle stew is a comforting, filling, and versatile recipe that fits any dinner table. With simple ingredients and a slow-simmered cooking method, it creates a rich, flavorful meal that satisfies every time. The combination of textures, spices, and warmth makes it an ideal choice for family dinners, meal prepping, or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Disclaimer
This story is for entertainment purposes only.