Beef Stew Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of beef stew simmering on the stove, filling your home with warmth and anticipation. This classic dish, packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, is the epitome of cold-weather comfort food.

this Recipe

I first made this stew on a rainy Sunday, hoping to create something hearty enough to satisfy my family while keeping the preparation simple. Now, it's a staple in our house, perfect for cozy dinners or make-ahead meals that taste even better the next day. Let me show you how to make this beloved dish your new favorite too!

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew

Get ready to add a timeless recipe to your repertoire. This beef stew is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

First, the flavor is unmatched. Slow-cooked chunks of tender beef absorb the deep flavors of garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, while the broth becomes a rich, velvety sauce.

You’ll also love how easy it is to prepare. While it might look and taste gourmet, the stew comes together with minimal hands-on time, leaving the stove (or slow cooker) to do most of the work.

Another bonus? This dish is budget-friendly. Using affordable cuts of beef like chuck roast, combined with pantry staples like carrots, potatoes, and onions, makes it a frugal yet indulgent option.

Finally, the recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread or serve it over fluffy mashed potatoes, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this comforting stew.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of beef stew lies in its humble ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating its signature depth of flavor.

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for stews because it becomes meltingly tender when slow-cooked. Look for well-marbled pieces for the best results.
• Potatoes: Starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russets hold their shape and absorb the flavors of the stew beautifully. Dice them into even chunks for uniform cooking.
• Carrots and Celery: These classic stew vegetables add sweetness and texture, complementing the savory notes of the beef and broth.
• Onions and Garlic: A generous amount of these aromatics is key to building a flavorful base. Sautéing them first releases their natural sweetness and enhances the stew.
• Beef Broth and Red Wine: The broth forms the stew's foundation, while the red wine adds richness and a subtle depth. If you prefer, you can replace the wine with extra broth.

You’ll also need a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for stovetop cooking. Alternatively, a slow cooker works wonderfully for a hands-off approach.

How To Make This Beef Stew

Making beef stew is a simple process, but the results are anything but basic. Here’s how to bring this comforting dish to life, step by step:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by cutting the beef chuck roast into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with a paper towel – this helps them brown better. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and sear the beef in batches until all sides are golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes. Add a splash of red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – this is where the flavor lives!

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Liquid

Return the seared beef to the pot, followed by chunks of potatoes, carrots, and celery. Pour in beef broth and a bit more red wine if using. Toss in bay leaves and a sprig of thyme or rosemary for added aroma.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the broth has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves and herbs. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

This stew takes about 30 minutes of prep and 2-3 hours of cooking time – perfect for a lazy weekend afternoon or to set and forget in a slow cooker.

Storage Options

One of the best things about beef stew is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum deliciousness:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve as it sits!
• Freezer: Beef stew freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm refrigerated stew on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s thickened too much. For frozen stew, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This beef stew recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to make it your own with a few tweaks:

• Vegetable Options: Swap out the potatoes for parsnips or add turnips and mushrooms for an earthy twist.
• Herb Choices: Experiment with different fresh herbs like sage or marjoram for a new flavor profile.
• Protein Switch: If you prefer a lighter version, use chicken thighs instead of beef, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
• Thickening the Broth: For a thicker stew, whisk a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water, then stir it into the simmering stew during the last 10 minutes.
• Slow Cooker Option: Follow the same steps for browning the beef and preparing the base, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is forgiving and welcomes your personal touch!

Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this beef stew is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or simply to savor with a slice of crusty bread, you’ll love how this dish delivers every time.

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