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Hobo Meatball Stew is a hearty, easy-to-make dish that brings the comforting flavors of homemade meatballs, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth together in one pot. This stew is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends when you want something satisfying without too much fuss. The name “Hobo” reflects its simplicity and the use of basic pantry staples that come together to create a wholesome and flavorful meal. With minimal preparation and a short list of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve the stew hot, with crusty bread or over rice if desired.
Tips for Perfect Hobo Meatball Stew
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme, use it instead of dried thyme for extra flavor. You can also add a few sprigs of rosemary for a fragrant twist.
- Brown the Meatballs Well: Browning the meatballs adds depth of flavor to the stew, so take your time to get a nice sear on them.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Make sure the potatoes and carrots are cut into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Recipe Variations
- Turkey Meatball Stew: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version of this stew.
- Spicy Meatball Stew: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to give the stew a bit of heat.
- Vegetable-Loaded Stew: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or green beans for a more nutrient-packed version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this stew ahead of time?
A: Yes! Hobo Meatball Stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will develop even more as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Q: Can I freeze Hobo Meatball Stew?
A: Absolutely. Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this stew?
A: This stew pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over a bed of rice for a heartier meal.
Hobo Meatball Stew is the perfect comfort food that brings together tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth in one satisfying dish. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor—just the thing you need to warm up on a chilly day. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this stew is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of hearty goodness!
