Beef Stew Recipe: A Hearty and Delicious Comfort Meal

by Jeffrey KingYummy Meals

There’s nothing quite like a warm, rich, and comforting bowl of beef stew. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or simply craving a satisfying meal, beef stew is a timeless dish that never fails to deliver. The tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and thick, savory broth come together in perfect harmony to create a meal that is both nourishing and incredibly delicious.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect beef stew. From choosing the right cut of beef to seasoning it just right, this guide will help you master this classic dish.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew Recipe

  • Rich and Hearty: Packed with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots, this stew is a complete meal in itself.
  • Flavorful Broth: Slow-cooked with herbs and spices, the broth becomes deeply savory and satisfying.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.
  • Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best beef stew, you’ll need a combination of fresh and pantry staples:

For the Stew:

  • 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 3 large carrots, sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and sweetness)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • A sprinkle of black pepper

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by patting the beef chunks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of flour. The flour helps thicken the stew later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the browned beef and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the tomato paste and stir well, letting it cook for about 2 minutes to deepen its flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the red wine (if using) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Herbs

Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

After about 1.5 hours, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir everything together, cover, and let it simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

If the stew needs thickening, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a little cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the pot. Let the stew simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Finally, add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the bay leaves, taste for seasoning, and adjust if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or rice.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

  • Use the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender when slow-cooked.
  • Sear the Meat: Browning the beef adds a rich depth of flavor to the stew.
  • Let It Simmer: Low and slow cooking ensures tender beef and a flavorful broth.
  • Enhance the Flavor: A splash of red wine and Worcestershire sauce adds a deep, savory richness.
  • Make It Ahead: Beef stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Variations and Substitutions

  • No Wine? No Problem! Replace the red wine with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the stew.
  • Vegetable Additions: Try adding mushrooms, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Can I Freeze Beef Stew?

Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

What to Serve with Beef Stew?

  • Crusty bread
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice or quinoa
  • A simple green salad

Final Thoughts

There you have it—an easy, delicious, and comforting beef stew recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you make it for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!