Ground Beef And Lentil Stew

Name: Ground Beef And Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comforts

I love making Ground Beef And Lentil Stew because it’s the perfect one-pot meal that nourishes and satisfies. The combination of ground beef and lentils not only brings a hearty flavor but also packs a delightful nutritional punch. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a medley of spices and vegetables that create a comforting stew, ideal for cozy gatherings. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:53:35.865Z

When I first tried my hand at making Ground Beef And Lentil Stew, I was amazed at how easily everything came together in just one pot. I found that browning the ground beef with onions and garlic creates a rich base that heightens the entire flavor. It's important to let the spices bloom before adding in the lentils!

Over the years, I’ve perfected my recipe, and now I always include chopped carrots and celery, which contribute subtle sweetness and texture. Trust me; the longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors deepen. Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas!

        You'll Love This Stew Because...
        Hearty combination of ground beef and tender lentils
Robust flavors developed from fresh spices and simmering
Easy one-pot meal, perfect for busy nights

      

Perfecting Your Stew

The process of browning ground beef is essential for developing flavor in your stew. As you cook the beef, ensure it is broken into smaller pieces, allowing it to achieve those coveted caramelized edges. This not only enhances the depth of flavor but also gives your stew a rich color. If your beef starts to steam rather than brown, increase the heat slightly but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Once you add the vegetables, it’s important to give them time to soften before proceeding. Sautéing the carrots and celery for about 3-4 minutes will release their natural sugars, adding sweetness to the overall flavor profile. This base will lay a delicious foundation for the stew, ensuring a well-rounded taste that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the lentils.

Ingredient Insights

Lentils are a fantastic addition to this stew, not just for their protein content, but also for their ability to absorb the surrounding flavors. Opt for green or brown lentils as they hold their shape better during cooking compared to red lentils, which tend to become mushy. If you’re in a time crunch, you can use pre-cooked or canned lentils to speed up the process, simply adding them in during the final stages of cooking.

Smoked paprika is a key ingredient that can elevate your stew significantly. Its smoky warmth brings complexity to the dish. Feel free to experiment with different spices; for a kick, consider adding in some cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder. Just be cautious with the heat level; start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before getting started to streamline the cooking process.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to taste before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Instructions

It's essential to stay organized as you cook this stew for the best results.

Brown the beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in the ground beef and cook until it's browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Combine the ingredients

Add carrots and celery to the pot, cooking until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider stirring in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Lentil Stew is ideal for meal prep, as it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. You can prepare the stew a day in advance, allowing it to cool and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider freezing individual portions. Ladle the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving your stew alongside crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra broth, while rice can add an additional layer of heartiness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew beautifully.

If you want to elevate the presentation, try topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. The creaminess will contrast with the stew’s warmth, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a refreshing brightness that enhances each spoonful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! This stew holds up well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef if you prefer a leaner option.

→ Are there any vegetarian alternatives?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute and use vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

Consider serving it with crusty bread, rice, or over a bed of fresh greens for a complete meal.