When the weather starts to cool and the evenings grow darker, there’s just something comforting about a bowl of beef stew. This Hearty Beef & Mushroom Stew brings all the cozy vibes with its rich, savory broth and tender chunks of beef simmered low and slow with earthy mushrooms, carrots, and fresh herbs. It fills the kitchen with an aroma that instantly makes you feel at home.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this stew fits right in. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s simple to make and even better the next day. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the mushrooms lend a delicious umami punch that takes things to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef & Mushroom Stew

This stew is packed with depth and flavor, and it only gets better with time. It doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, just simple pantry staples and a bit of patience. The combination of seared beef and sauteed mushrooms creates a rich base, while the slow simmer infuses the broth with every bit of goodness. It’s nourishing, hearty, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for chilly nights or when you just want a big bowl of something cozy.

What Cut of Beef Should I Use?

For a stew that practically melts in your mouth, look for cuts like chuck roast or stewing beef. These cuts have enough marbling and connective tissue to become tender and flavorful as they cook. Just make sure to give them time. A long, gentle simmer is what transforms tough cuts into buttery bites. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin—they dry out easily and won’t deliver that rich, meaty flavor that makes a stew unforgettable.

Ingredients for the Hearty Beef & Mushroom Stew

A great stew starts with quality ingredients. Each one plays a role in building flavor and texture, from the beef to the herbs.

Beef chuck roast
Cut into chunks, this cut adds bold beef flavor and gets incredibly tender during a long simmer.

Mushrooms
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms work beautifully, bringing an earthy depth that pairs perfectly with the beef.

Carrots
They add sweetness and a pop of color that brightens the whole dish.

Onion
Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor once caramelized.

Garlic
Just a few cloves give the stew a savory backbone that enhances every bite.

Beef broth
The base of the stew, rich and hearty. Choose low-sodium so you can control the seasoning.

Tomato paste
Adds umami and helps to thicken the stew a bit.

Red wine
Optional, but adds richness and complexity to the broth.

Flour
Used to dredge the beef and thicken the stew slightly as it simmers.

Olive oil & butter
For searing and sauteing. The butter brings out the richness in the mushrooms.

Thyme and bay leaf
Herbs that add layers of aroma and flavor without overpowering.

Salt and black pepper
Always season to taste and adjust as you go.

How To Make the Hearty Beef & Mushroom Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Toss beef chunks in flour, salt, and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the beef in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Saute the Aromatics

Add butter to the pot. Stir in diced onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook until they begin to soften, then add garlic and tomato paste.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the beef back in along with beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Low and Slow Cooking

Cover and reduce heat. Let it simmer gently for about 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors are rich and deep.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving.

How to Store and Serve This Stew

This Hearty Beef & Mushroom Stew easily feeds 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or leftovers. If you have any left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it may taste even better the next day. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheat slowly to maintain the texture of the meat and veggies. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up without losing flavor.