We’ve all fallen for the charm of Girl Scout Stew a hearty ground beef recipe that’s rooted in scouting traditions and perfect for family adventures. It’s that easy one-pot wonder we turn to when we want comfort without the fuss offering bold flavors that warm you up in no time.
In our kitchen we’ve simplified this classic so you can enjoy it anytime. Whether you’re camping under the stars or cooking at home our take on Girl Scout Stew delivers delicious results that keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
In our simplified version of the Girl Scout Stew Recipe Ground Beef, we focus on fresh, straightforward ingredients that deliver that comforting, hearty flavor tied to scouting traditions. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for easy preparation.
- Ground beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef, browned to perfection for the base of our stew.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, to add a sweet, aromatic layer as we build flavors.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for that essential punch of savoriness right after the onion.
- Potatoes: 4 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes, to provide heartiness and absorb the stew’s rich juices.
- Carrots: 2 large carrots, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds, for a touch of natural sweetness and texture.
- Canned green beans: 1 can (14.5 ounces, drained), added for convenient crunch and color.
- Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces), undiluted, to create a creamy, flavorful broth that ties everything together.
- Beef broth: 2 cups, low-sodium, to enhance the beefy depth without overwhelming the dish.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme, combined and stirred in at the end for balanced taste.
This selection ensures our Girl Scout Stew Recipe Ground Beef remains a one-pot wonder, perfect for family adventures or quick home meals.
Required Tools and Equipment
To prepare our flavorful Girl Scout Stew with ground beef, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment that make the cooking process efficient and enjoyable. These items ensure that browning the ground beef, chopping vegetables, and simmering the stew go smoothly, building on the fresh ingredients we discussed earlier.
Here’s a detailed list of the key tools we recommend:
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This is our go-to for one-pot meals like Girl Scout Stew. It provides even heat distribution to brown the ground beef and simmer the ingredients without sticking.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: Ideal for initially searing the ground beef to lock in flavors before adding it to the pot—opt for a non-stick version for easy cleanup.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp, sturdy knife is crucial for chopping onions, mincing garlic, dicing potatoes, and slicing carrots precisely, ensuring even cooking in the stew.
- Cutting Board: We prefer a large, stable cutting board made of wood or plastic to handle all the vegetable prep safely and efficiently.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for seasonings and liquids, so use a set of these to portion out beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and spices without guesswork.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the stew as it simmers, preventing scorching and helping blend flavors like the canned green beans and potatoes.
- Can Opener: An essential tool for opening cans of green beans and cream of mushroom soup quickly and safely.
- Ladle: Great for serving up hearty portions of Girl Scout Stew, making it easy to dish out at family gatherings or camping trips.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly into the cooking steps, creating a delicious, hearty ground beef recipe that’s both convenient and packed with tradition.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we can effortlessly prepare our hearty Girl Scout Stew, a comforting ground beef recipe that’s perfect for family adventures and quick meals.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s quickly prepare our vegetables and other components to ensure everything integrates smoothly into the stew. Begin by washing and chopping the following items based on the ingredients list:
- Chop 1 medium onion into ½-inch pieces for a sweet, aromatic base.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely to release their pungent flavor.
- Dice 4 medium potatoes (such as Yukon Gold) into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- Slice 3 large carrots into ½-inch rounds to add a crisp, colorful sweetness that balances the richness of the beef.
- Drain and rinse 1 can (14.5 ounces) of green beans to remove excess sodium, preserving their tender-crisp texture.
This preparation step sets the stage for a flavorful, one-pot wonder that highlights the traditional appeal of our Girl Scout Stew.
Cook the Ground Beef
With our ingredients prepped, we now focus on browning the lean ground beef, the star of this ground beef recipe, to build a robust foundation of flavors. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 pound of ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Heat the skillet for 1-2 minutes until hot, then add the beef, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until it’s fully browned and releases a savory, meaty aroma.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat using a spoon or by tilting the skillet, but leave about 1 tablespoon for added richness.
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant, enhancing the stew’s hearty depth.
This step ensures the beef develops a golden, caramelized edge that infuses the entire dish with comforting, tradition-steeped taste.
Simmer the Stew
Now that our ground beef is perfectly browned, we combine everything in a large Dutch oven to let the flavors meld into a rich, satisfying stew. This is where our Girl Scout Stew truly comes alive, creating a warm, aromatic blend that’s ideal for both camping trips and home dinners.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the Dutch oven, then add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, drained green beans, 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup, and 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for seasoning, stirring thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the stew thickens to a hearty consistency.
As it simmers, the stew develops a deep, savory aroma and velvety texture, making it a go-to ground beef recipe for effortless, delicious results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Girl Scout Stew with ground beef is its make-ahead potential, allowing us to prepare it in advance for busy days, camping trips, or family gatherings. This approach not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld together, creating a richer, more aromatic dish that tastes even better the next day.
Preparing the Stew Ahead
To get started, we recommend fully assembling and cooking the stew as outlined in our previous steps. Once the stew has simmermed until the vegetables are tender, follow these steps for make-ahead preparation:
- Cool the stew quickly: After removing the pot from the heat, transfer the stew to a shallow container. This helps it cool evenly and safely, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Aim for room temperature within 2 hours to preserve that hearty, comforting essence.
- Portion for storage: Divide the cooled stew into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. We suggest portions of 1-2 servings each to make reheating straightforward and minimize waste.
- Label and date: Always mark the containers with the preparation date. This ensures we track freshness and enjoy our Girl Scout Stew at its best.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the stew’s bold flavors and textures. Below is a quick reference table for storage times and methods:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3-4 days | Store at 40°F (4°C) or below; the ground beef and vegetables will retain their moisture and flavor, making the stew taste freshly made. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer bags to remove air and prevent freezer burn; this keeps the hearty broth from becoming watery upon reheating. |
Reheating Instructions
When we’re ready to enjoy our make-ahead Girl Scout Stew, reheating is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to bring back its warm, savory aroma and tender vegetables:
- Thaw if frozen: If the stew is frozen, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. This gentle thawing prevents the ground beef from becoming tough and ensures even heating.
- Reheat on the stove: Place the stew in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches a gentle simmer—about 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to restore the original consistency and enhance that comforting, flavorful depth.
- Check temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). This step guarantees safety while preserving the dish’s rich, inviting taste.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we maximize the convenience of our Girl Scout Stew, turning it into a go-to option for effortless, delicious meals.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on Girl Scout Stew, a recipe that’s become a staple for us during family adventures and cozy nights. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a simple way to create lasting memories with its hearty flavors and ease.
By keeping things straightforward, we’ve made it accessible for everyone, whether you’re camping or cooking at home. Trust us, once you try it, it’ll be your go-to for effortless, delicious dinners that never disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Girl Scout Stew?
Girl Scout Stew is a hearty, comforting ground beef recipe rooted in scouting traditions. It’s a simple one-pot meal that’s perfect for camping or home cooking, offering flavorful results with easy preparation. This version makes it ideal for family gatherings and adventures.
What ingredients are needed for Girl Scout Stew?
Key ingredients include lean ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, low-sodium beef broth, and basic seasonings. These fresh, straightforward components create a flavorful, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare.
What tools and equipment are required to make Girl Scout Stew?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven for cooking, a skillet for browning meat, a chef’s knife for chopping, measuring cups for accuracy, and a ladle for serving. These essentials help streamline the process and ensure efficient preparation.
How do I cook Girl Scout Stew?
Start by prepping ingredients like chopping onions and dicing potatoes. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then sauté onions and garlic. Combine everything in a Dutch oven with the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, and simmer until vegetables are tender. This creates a rich, aromatic stew in one pot.
Can I prepare Girl Scout Stew in advance?
Yes, you can make Girl Scout Stew ahead for busy days or trips. Prepare the full recipe, cool it completely, then portion and store. It’s great for family gatherings, allowing you to save time while keeping flavors intact.
How should I store and reheat Girl Scout Stew?
Store cooled stew in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to restore consistency and ensure it’s piping hot.