Beef Stew Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a hearty beef stew simmering on the stove. With tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this classic dish is the ultimate remedy for chilly evenings or when you're craving a wholesome meal.

this Recipe

I remember the first time I made this recipe – it was a cold Sunday afternoon, and I wanted something warm and satisfying. One pot later, my family was gathered around the table, eagerly asking for seconds. This recipe has since become a beloved tradition in our home, and I know it will be in yours too.

Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this irresistible beef stew.

Why You'll Love This Beef Stew

Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food. This beef stew isn't just delicious; it's a dish you'll want to make over and over again.

• Simple and Satisfying: With just a few steps, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. It’s perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned pros alike.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable cuts like chuck roast, you can create a luxurious meal without breaking the bank.
• Meal Prep Hero: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Customizable: Swap out vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your family’s taste – the possibilities are endless.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this dish has stood the test of time as a family favorite.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of beef stew lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating its depth of flavor. Here's a closer look at the key components:

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for stews because of its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. Cut it into 1 ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
• Carrots and Potatoes: These vegetables add a hearty texture and natural sweetness to the stew. Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds, which hold their shape better during cooking.
• Beef Broth: A rich beef broth forms the base of the stew. For extra depth, you can mix in a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Just a few tablespoons give the broth a robust, tangy kick.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves bring aromatic warmth to the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions work too.
• All-Purpose Flour: Tossing the beef in flour before browning helps thicken the stew as it simmers.

You’ll also need a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking and heat retention.

How To Make This Beef Stew

Creating this hearty beef stew is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a foolproof result every time.

1. Prepare the Beef
   Start by patting the beef chunks dry with a paper towel. Toss them in a light coating of all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. This step helps lock in flavor and thicken the broth later.
2. Brown the Beef
   Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear until each piece is golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Cook until fragrant and slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Build the Base
   Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to caramelize its flavors. Deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine (optional) or a ladle of beef broth, stirring to combine.
5. Simmer the Stew
   Return the beef to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, and remaining beef broth. Add thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Final Touches
   Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking or mash a few potatoes directly into the broth.

From start to finish, this process takes about 2 ½ hours, but the result is well worth the wait – a cozy, flavorful meal ready to delight your taste buds.

Storage Options

This beef stew is a meal prep dream, with flavors that deepen as it rests. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew has thickened too much.

Variations and Substitutions

This stew is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Swap the Meat: Try using lamb or pork for a different flavor profile.
• Go Vegetarian: Omit the beef and double up on hearty vegetables like mushrooms, parsnips, or butternut squash.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or thicken the stew with cornstarch instead of flour.
• Add Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist on classic flavors.

This beef stew recipe is a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner or freezing portions for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. So grab your Dutch oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade comfort food!

Print