There's something deeply comforting about a bowl of old-fashioned beef stew. The hearty chunks of tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and rich, savory broth create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It's the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table, savoring each bite as the aroma of thyme and simmering beef fills the air.

I first fell in love with this classic dish as a child, watching my grandmother stir her bubbling pot on the stove. Over time, I’ve perfected my own version, keeping the traditional flavors while simplifying the process for busy cooks. Let me show you how to make this timeless favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Beef SteW

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food. This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is packed with flavor and is as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

First, this stew is a one-pot wonder. It’s perfect for minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor, as everything simmers together to create a cohesive and delicious dish.

Secondly, the recipe is wonderfully budget-friendly. Using inexpensive cuts of beef and pantry staples like potatoes and carrots, you’ll create a meal that’s both economical and filling.

And let’s talk about versatility. Whether you prefer to cook it low and slow on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in your trusty Instant Pot, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.

Finally, it’s the ultimate make-ahead dish. This stew tastes even better the next day, making it a go-to option for meal prep or lazy weekends.

Ready to start cooking? Let’s break down the ingredients that make this stew shine.

Ingredient Notes

The magic of this Old Fashioned Beef Stew lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Beef Chuck Roast: This is the star of the dish, thanks to its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked slowly. Cut into bite-sized chunks for even cooking.
Vegetables: A classic mix of carrots, potatoes, and celery creates the perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness. Yukon gold potatoes work best because they hold their shape while becoming buttery soft.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and warmth to the broth, creating a flavor base that ties everything together.
Tomato Paste: A small amount of tomato paste adds richness and a subtle tang to the stew.
Beef Broth: Opt for a high-quality broth for the best flavor. You can even use homemade if you have some on hand.
Red Wine: This optional ingredient elevates the stew with a touch of acidity and complexity. If you prefer, replace it with additional beef broth.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme, bay leaves, and a hint of smoked paprika bring out the best in every ingredient.

Finally, make sure you have a sturdy Dutch oven or slow cooker on hand. These tools are essential for creating the perfect stew.

How to Make This Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew is easier than you might think. With a little patience and care, you’ll have a dish that’s deeply satisfying.

Sear the Beef: Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, ensuring a golden crust on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Build the Flavor Base: In the same pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen its flavor.
Deglaze the Pot: Pour in red wine (or broth) to deglaze, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. This step infuses the stew with incredible depth.
Simmer the Stew: Add the beef back to the pot, along with carrots, celery, potatoes, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 2-3 hours.
Thicken the Broth: To thicken the stew, mix a slurry of cornstarch and water. Stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking, and watch the broth transform into a luscious, velvety sauce.
Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.

This hearty stew is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread.

Storage Options

Leftovers? Lucky you! This stew stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freeze: Place cooled stew in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips: Warm the stew over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even reheating. Avoid boiling, as this can make the meat tougher.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Protein Swap: If beef isn’t your thing, try lamb or even turkey for a lighter twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth. Add lentils or beans for protein.
Root Vegetables: Turnips, parsnips, or sweet potatoes make excellent substitutes for traditional potatoes.
Seasoning Tweaks: Experiment with rosemary, parsley, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor profile.
Thicker Stew: Prefer a thicker consistency? Mash some of the potatoes into the broth before serving.

No matter how you customize it, this stew is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.

There you have it – the ultimate Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep hero, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!