Shipwreck Stew Ground Beef

Shipwreck Stew is the kind of recipe that comes to the rescue when you need something hot filling and loved by pretty much everyone at the table. With just a handful of staple ingredients this stew packs a nostalgic flavor that feels like pure comfort in a bowl and it feeds a hungry crew without stress or fancy steps.

The first time I made this stew I remember being skeptical about how basic it sounded but my house filled with the most inviting smell. Every single person cleared their bowl and went back for seconds—now it is a weeknight regular for us.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Gives this stew its savory heartiness Go for a leaner grind and good quality beef for less grease and better texture
• Potatoes: Bring body and comfort Waxier potatoes hold their shape in stew and peeling is up to you
• Onion: Creates an aromatic backbone Chop finely if you want it to melt in or slice thin for bites of sweetness
• Celery: Offers crunch and fresh herbal flavor Choose crisp stalks with leafy tops for extra taste
• Kidney beans: Add protein and earthiness Use the canned beans with their liquid for richness
• Whole kernel corn: Adds sweetness and little pops of texture Canned corn with its liquid makes things extra cozy
• Diced tomatoes: Build a tangy saucy base Look for cans with no extra seasoning for more control over flavors
• Salt and pepper: Bring balanced seasoning Taste as you go for the best result with all those veggies

Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium high heat breaking it up as it cooks until no pink remains Patience here really brings a deep roasted flavor to the stew

Drain the Fat:

If there is excess fat from the beef carefully spoon it out so the stew does not get greasy A little is ok for flavor but too much will muddy the broth

Layer the Ingredients:

First arrange the potato slices or cubes evenly over the beef then add onions celery then kidney beans Pour in both cans with their liquid Next add the corn with its juices then the diced tomatoes Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper between layers for more depth

Simmer Gently:

Turn heat to medium high and let the whole pot come to a lively simmer The bubbling helps the flavor start to come together

Slow Cook Until Tender:

Once simmering reduce heat to medium low Put the lid on and let the stew quietly cook for about forty five minutes Stir occasionally and check potatoes for doneness Everything should be fork tender and flavors well blended

Taste and serve:

Give the stew a careful stir Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed Dish into bowls and enjoy steaming hot

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My favorite part is the way the potatoes soak up all those juices and flavors I used to pick out just the potatoes as a kid but now I love every part of it This is the dish my grandpa made when we would visit for the holidays so every spoonful feels like a family reunion to me

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for around four days Let the stew cool before transferring it to airtight containers Reheat on the stove or in the microwave stirring to make sure it heats through evenly The flavors deepen even more by the next day You can also freeze portions for up to two months Be sure to leave some headspace in your container to allow for expansion

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want to lighten things up Pinto beans or black beans work well if you are out of kidney beans Fresh or frozen corn can replace canned just add a little water Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies will give the stew a little kick

Serving Suggestions

This is hearty enough to stand on its own but is even better with a crusty piece of bread or a warm dinner roll It is great over cooked rice if you want to stretch it farther A sprinkle of shredded cheese right at the end is never a bad idea

Cultural historical context

Shipwreck Stew comes from a tradition of making nourishing meals with whatever is on hand It is popular in the Midwest and has roots in farmhouse kitchens Think of it as the ultimate clean out the cupboard meal The layers mimic old shipboard stews where everything goes in the pot to cook as one

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This classic stew proves that simple can be truly delicious. It is the kind of comfort that turns even an ordinary night into something special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of ground beef works best?

Opt for lean ground beef to minimize excess fat, but any variety can be used based on preference.

→ Can I substitute the potatoes?

Yes, you can use sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a twist, adjusting cooking time as needed.

→ Should beans be drained or added with liquid?

Add beans with their can liquid as it enhances the stew's texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow to cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days. It also freezes well.

→ Are other vegetables suitable?

Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrition.