The Best Beef Stew Recipe

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. The moment I start chopping those hearty vegetables and searing the beef, I’m instantly transported to cozy kitchens of my childhood, where warmth came not just from the food but from the love poured into it. This recipe has been my go-to for years, and it never fails to impress both family and guests alike.

I remember one particularly cold winter when I served this stew to a group of friends who had trudged through the snow to visit. The aroma alone drew smiles and sighs of contentment. Everyone went back for seconds, and some even asked for the recipe right there at the table. That’s when I knew this dish was something special—simple, rustic, but full of flavor that speaks to the soul.

In crafting this version of beef stew, I drew inspiration from hearty classics but added my personal touch to balance richness and freshness. It’s perfect with a slice of crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes, and if you enjoy recipes like my creamy beef and shells or the cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce, then you’re bound to fall in love with this stew.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew Recipe

This beef stew is deeply savory, filled with tender chunks of beef that melt in your mouth, and hearty vegetables that soak up every bit of flavor. The broth is rich yet balanced, perfect for dipping bread or simply savoring by the spoonful. It’s a crowd-pleaser, meal-prep friendly, and comforting beyond words. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a Sunday supper, this recipe brings people together around the table.

Ingredients

Beef chuck: This cut is ideal for stew because it becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking and provides a rich beefy flavor.

Carrots: They add natural sweetness and color, complementing the savory broth perfectly.

Potatoes: A hearty addition that soaks up the flavors of the stew, making each bite filling and satisfying.

Celery: It brings a subtle aromatic depth and freshness to balance the richness.

Onion: Essential for the base, it adds sweetness and complexity to the dish.

Garlic: Brings an earthy, robust aroma that infuses the stew with more depth.

Beef broth: The foundation of the stew, providing a savory liquid to bring everything together.

Tomato paste: Adds a tangy richness and helps create a luscious, thick broth.

Bay leaves and thyme: Herbs that perfume the dish with classic flavors that pair beautifully with beef.

Salt and pepper: To season and enhance every other ingredient.

Olive oil: For searing the beef and building flavor at the start.

Flour: Lightly coating the beef before browning helps thicken the stew.

How to Make The Best Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Toss beef chunks with a light coating of flour, salt, and pepper. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until fragrant and just beginning to soften.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen its flavor. Deglaze the pot with a splash of broth, scraping up the browned bits for extra flavor.

Step 4: Simmer

Return the beef to the pot, add potatoes, remaining broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving hot.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a twist on the traditional, you can swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a lighter stew, try using chicken or turkey in place of beef. Red wine makes a lovely addition to the broth for a deeper, more robust flavor. For a gluten-free version, skip the flour and thicken with a cornstarch slurry instead. You can also experiment with adding mushrooms, parsnips, or even peas toward the end for variety.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This beef stew pairs beautifully with a loaf of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the savory broth. It’s also delicious over a mound of creamy mashed potatoes or even buttered egg noodles. For sides, I recommend a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to lighten the meal. A glass of red wine or a dark ale complements the rich flavors wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first.

FAQs

How long does The Best Beef Stew Recipe take to cook?

The stew takes about 2 and a half hours total, with most of the time spent simmering to tenderize the beef.

Can I make The Best Beef Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

What cut of beef is best for The Best Beef Stew Recipe?

I recommend beef chuck because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

Can I freeze The Best Beef Stew Recipe?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

How can I thicken The Best Beef Stew Recipe?

If the broth seems too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering stew until it thickens.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this hearty beef stew, you’ll also love my creamy beef and shells for another comforting beef dish that’s perfect for weeknights. Or, try the cheesesteak tortellini in rich provolone sauce for a cheesy, indulgent meal everyone will rave about.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later on your Pinterest board so you can easily find it when those chilly nights call for something warm and comforting. You can also share it with your friends and family on Facebook, Instagram, or by email—because good food is always better when shared with loved ones!

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