Beef Stew

There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of hearty Beef Stew. It’s the perfect comfort food, especially when the weather turns cooler and your soul craves warmth. Tender cubes of beef chuck simmered to perfection alongside vibrant carrots, potatoes, and savory herbs make this dish a timeless classic. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers rich flavors and a cozy vibe that everyone will love.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The magic of this Beef Stew lies in its simplicity and heartiness. It brings together familiar, wholesome ingredients that create a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal. The tender beef, slowly cooked until melt-in-your-mouth soft, paired with the natural sweetness of carrots and earthiness of potatoes, makes every bite a delight. Plus, the aromatic herbs add a layer of complexity without overpowering the dish, making it a guaranteed favorite for all ages.

This stew is also incredibly versatile, easy to make in large batches, and perfect for serving alongside crusty bread or over fluffy mashed potatoes. Its rich broth not only comforts but also nourishes, making it an ideal go-to recipe when you want something both delicious and nutritious.

What Goes In

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 bay leaf

What’s in the Gear List

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – for even heat distribution
• Spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Sharp knife and cutting board – to prep your ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise seasoning and broth
• Bowls for serving

The Method for Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cutting your beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes. Having everything ready upfront makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides until a deep golden crust forms—this step adds essential flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Flour and Build the Base

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute to cook the flour and create a roux-like base. This will help thicken the stew later.

Step 5: Deglaze and Add Broth

Slowly pour in the 4 cups of beef broth while stirring to lift the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the beef cubes back to the pot along with the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste your stew and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth of this classic dish.

Adaptations for Special Diets

• For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter, yet flavorful stew.
• Add extra vegetables like parsnips, celery, or mushrooms for more variety and nutrients.
• Use slow cooker or Instant Pot methods for easier hands-off cooking. Check out this Instant Pot Cube Steak recipe for inspiration on pressure-cooked beef dishes.

Notes on Ingredients

• Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking, making it ideal for stew.
• Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil that withstands high heat well for browning meat.
• Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary add an earthy, fragrant note that complements the beef without overpowering it.
• Flour: Acts as a natural thickener to give the stew its comforting, hearty texture.
• Bay Leaf: Adds subtle depth to the broth, so be sure to remove it before serving.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This stew actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld together. You can prepare it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Beef Stew Q&A

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or round steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.

How do I thicken my stew if it’s too watery?

If the stew is thinner than you’d like, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering stew. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before simmering?

Yes, browning the beef adds a deeper flavor and richer color to your stew. Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful dish.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Beef Bourguignon – A classic French stew with rich red wine flavors.
• Instant Pot Cube Steak – Quick and tender beef cooked in your pressure cooker.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the ingredients, gear, and step-by-step method, it’s time to bring this Beef Stew to life in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and enjoy the process of creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also deeply comforting. Serve it hot with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This classic recipe is a staple that you’ll return to time and again, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Happy cooking!

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