Description
This hearty beef stew is the ultimate comfort food. With tender chunks of beef, rich gravy, and soft vegetables, every bite is warm, flavorful, and satisfying. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
Introduction
Few meals bring comfort like a homemade beef stew simmered to perfection. The slow-cooked beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the vegetables soak up all the savory flavors of the broth. This stew combines classic ingredients with simple techniques to deliver a comforting, wholesome dinner that tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s rich, thick, and hearty.
Uses simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Ingredients
For the Beef
2 pounds (about 900g) beef stew meat, cut into chunks
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon seasoning salt (or 1 tsp salt + 1 tsp garlic powder + 1 tsp onion powder)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Stew
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
3–4 carrots, sliced into thick rounds
3–4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 celery stalks, sliced (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef
In a large bowl, combine the flour, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Toss the beef chunks until fully coated. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the pieces on all sides, about 5–7 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring often to deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Stew Base
Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot — this adds rich flavor. Return the browned beef to the pot and add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should become tender and the broth will begin to thicken naturally.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
After 1½ hours, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue simmering uncovered for another 30–40 minutes until the vegetables and beef are fork-tender. If the stew becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning. Add salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Variations
For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine after browning the beef and let it reduce before adding broth.
Add peas or green beans during the last 10 minutes of simmering for color and freshness.
For extra richness, stir in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce just before serving.
Turn it into a slow-cooker version by transferring all ingredients to a slow cooker after browning the beef. Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
Tips for the Best Results
Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven for even cooking.
Don’t skip browning the beef—it builds flavor.
Simmer gently for tender beef and rich texture.
Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef stew hot with crusty bread, buttered rolls, or mashed potatoes.
It also pairs perfectly with a side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
What’s the best cut of beef to use?
Chuck roast or stewing beef works best—they become tender after long simmering.
How can I thicken the stew more?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Beef Stew is a timeless, comforting recipe that brings together hearty ingredients and rich, home-cooked flavor. Whether for a chilly evening or a special family meal, it’s guaranteed to warm hearts and satisfy every appetite.