Beefed-Up & Loaded! The Best Hobo Stew with Veggies

Looking for a simple, hearty, and budget-friendly meal that brings big flavor with minimal effort? This Beefed-Up Hobo Stew is a true classic! Packed with savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even campfire cooking.

Hobo stew has been a comfort food favorite for generations—originally made by travelers and outdoor cooks using whatever ingredients they had on hand. Our version takes it up a notch, "beefing it up" with a delicious mix of tender ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a blend of spices that make every bite hearty and satisfying.

The best part? It’s an easy, dump-and-go meal with minimal cleanup! Whether you're making this on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or over an open flame, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

So grab your ingredients, let’s get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this flavor-packed, no-fuss Hobo Stew!

Cooking Method Cooking, Frying, Mixing, sauteing, simmering

Courses Lunch, Main

Difficulty Intermediate

Time

Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 20 mins Total Time: 35 mins

Cooking Temp 350 C

Calories 610

Best Season Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Beefed-Up Hobo Stew is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, one-pot meal that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with rich, savory flavors. Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and a delicious blend of spices, this classic stew is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Originally popularized during the Great Depression, hobo stew was a no-fuss meal made with whatever ingredients were available. Our version takes this traditional dish to the next level by "beefing it up" with a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and bold seasoning for a truly satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1 Pound medium ground beef
2 Medium potatoes, diced
1 Medium carrot, sliced thinly
1 Small onion, diced
3 Cloves of garlic, chopped
1 Tbsp of tomato paste
2 Cups of green beans, cut
1 Medium can of diced tomatoes
2 Cups of beef broth
2 Tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Tsp of salt
2 Tsp ground black pepper
1 Tsp of paprika
2 Tsp of Italian seasoning

Instructions

Add the ground beef to a pan over medium high heat. Stir and fry until cooked through. Push the beef to one side and add in the onion and garlic. Stir and fry until fragant. Mix once again.
Add in the tomato paste and mix until the beef is coated. Then put the potatoes, carrots, and green beans in. Stir once again until combined. Add in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good mix and bring it to a boil. Place a lid on, reduce the heat, and allow it to simmer for about 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
After the potatoes are tender, add in the beans. Stir, place the lid back on, and allow to simmer until the beans are heated through.
Plate, serve, and enjoy your Beefed-Up & Loaded! Hearty Hobo Stew with Veggies!

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
Calories 610kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 8g40%
Cholesterol 55mg19%
Sodium 900mg38%
Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 7g
Protein 28g57%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional values are a within reason estimate and my vary depending on several factors.

Note

1. Ingredient Swaps & Variations:

Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even stew beef for a different flavor.
Vegetable Variations: Add or substitute zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans for extra nutrition.
Beans for Protein: For a heartier meal, mix in kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas.
Spice It Up: Want a little kick? Add a pinch of chili flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce.

2. Cooking Methods:

Slow Cooker: Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to a crockpot on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Instant Pot: Use the sauté function for the beef, then pressure cook on HIGH for 20 minutes, followed by a quick release.
Campfire Cooking: Cook in a large cast-iron pot over an open flame, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Serving Suggestions:

Crusty Bread or Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
Over Rice or Egg Noodles: Turns the stew into a full, hearty meal.
With a Side Salad: Adds freshness and balance to the dish.

4. Storage & Reheating Tips:

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better overnight!
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. You can also microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

5. Make It Even More Flavorful!

Let It Simmer: The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors! Aim for at least 30-40 minutes for the best taste.
Use Homemade Broth: If possible, homemade beef or vegetable broth makes a huge difference in depth of flavor.
Deglaze the Pot: After browning the beef, scrape up the browned bits with a little broth for extra richness.

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