Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe

If you have been searching for a soul-satisfying, comforting dish that bursts with flavor and warmth, this Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Packed with tender, juicy meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this stew is a beautiful harmony of textures and aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and comes together with ingredients you probably already have at home, making it both accessible and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this stew plays a crucial role in building its rich, comforting character. From the perfectly browned meatballs to the fresh vegetables and herbs, each element adds a unique touch of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish truly special.

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20: Provides juicy, flavorful meatballs with just the right fat content for tenderness.
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of garlicky warmth without overpowering the dish.
• ¾ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes in the meat mixture for richer flavor.
• 2 teaspoons sea salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the meatballs with classic herbaceous flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Delivers a gentle kick and balances the richness.
• 1 large egg: Binds the meatball mixture, ensuring they hold together beautifully.
• ½ cup bread crumbs: Helps create a light, tender meatball texture.
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and savory complexity.
• ¼ cup whole milk: Moistens the mixture for soft and juicy meatballs.
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Used for browning meatballs and sautéing vegetables, adding richness.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup): Brings sweetness and texture to the stew base.
• 2 large carrots, large dice (about 1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 celery ribs, large dice (about 1 cup): Offers a crisp, aromatic backbone to the stew.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic gives a fragrant and punchy boost to the broth.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor while adding richness and depth.
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme: Infuses a lovely herby brightness that complements the beef.
• 6 cups beef stock: Forms the hearty, nourishing base of the stew.
• 2 teaspoons beef bouillon or better than bouillon: Intensifies the broth’s savory notes.
• 4 small Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1½-inch pieces: Add creaminess and substance.
• 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces: Brings a fresh, crisp bite and a pop of green.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the stew to a luscious consistency.
• ¼ cup cold water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
• Flat leaf parsley, for serving: Adds a fresh herbal finish and bright color.

How to Make Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, Italian seasoning, pepper, egg, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, and whole milk in a large bowl. Using your hands for mixing works best to evenly incorporate all ingredients and create the perfect texture, but a stand mixer with a paddle attachment is a handy alternative if you prefer.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Form golf ball-sized meatballs, roughly two tablespoons each—aiming for about 24 total. Dampen your palms to make rolling easier and to prevent sticking, which helps keep each meatball perfectly compact and uniform.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottom pot over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage; browning seals in the juices and adds that beautiful caramelized flavor. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, then set the browned meatballs aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with diced onions, celery, and carrots. Cook until soft and aromatic, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, allowing the garlic’s aroma to fill your kitchen.

Step 5: Build the Stew Base

Add tomato paste and fresh thyme to the vegetables, stirring to combine fully. Return the browned meatballs to the pot, pour in the beef stock, and stir in the beef bouillon. Bring everything to a boil on high heat, then immediately reduce to a simmer for gentle, even cooking.

Step 6: Simmer with Potatoes and Green Beans

Add diced Yukon Gold potatoes and green beans to the stew. Cover tightly and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender and meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you prefer crisper green beans, add them 10 minutes after the potatoes have started cooking.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew

Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth to form a slurry. Stir it into the stew over low heat and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until the broth thickens to a rich, velvety consistency.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped flat leaf parsley over the stew and serve piping hot. This Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread or buttered egg noodles to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth.

How to Serve Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh flat leaf parsley isn’t just for color; it adds a bright, herbal lift that balances the stew’s rich flavors perfectly. You might also sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor that surprises and delights.

Side Dishes

This stew shines best with warm, crusty bread for dunking or even buttery egg noodles to add comforting carbs that round out the meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also be a refreshing companion, cutting through the stew’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stew in rustic bowls for a cozy, farmhouse feel. For a fun twist, serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Let your creativity shine by garnishing with fresh thyme sprigs or toasted pine nuts for texture contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stew to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick reheats on busy evenings.

Freezing

This Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You might need to add a splash of beef stock or water if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative, though the meatballs might be a little less juicy. Add a splash more milk or a tiny bit of olive oil to keep them moist.

Can this stew be made in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the meatballs and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Add green beans halfway through cooking so they don’t overcook.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of a meatball; it should read 160°F to ensure they are safely cooked through and juicy.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, peas, or even diced zucchini. Just adjust cooking times to keep all vegetables tender yet not mushy.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

You can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour mixed with cold water, or use arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option to thicken the stew.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something effortlessly satisfying about a pot of Hearty Meatball Stew with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe simmering on the stove. It’s a timeless dish that brings comfort, warmth, and joy with every spoonful. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, invite your friends or family to gather around, and experience the simple magic of homemade stew in all its rich, savory glory.

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