Beef Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Beef Stew Recipe to warm you up on a chilly day. This classic comfort food brings together tender chunks of beef, rich broth, and a medley of vegetables for a satisfying meal that fills both the belly and the soul. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply craving a cozy dinner, this recipe is your go-to for deep, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Let’s dive into what makes this Beef Stew Recipe a kitchen favorite time and time again.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic behind this Beef Stew Recipe lies in a few key techniques and ingredients. First, the choice of beef chuck cut provides a perfect balance of marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down during slow cooking to create tender, juicy meat. Coating the beef cubes in a seasoned flour mixture helps develop a beautiful crust while thickening the stew naturally as it cooks.

Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil infuses the base with aromatic depth, while the addition of beef broth and a splash of red wine adds richness and complexity. Tomato paste lends a subtle acidity that brightens the stew without overpowering it. The combination of carrots, potatoes, and peas rounds out the dish, offering natural sweetness and texture contrast.

Finally, herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves impart earthy, comforting notes that elevate the stew’s flavor profile. Slow simmering melds everything beautifully, ensuring a stew that’s balanced, hearty, and utterly satisfying.

What We’re Using

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – the star protein for tenderness and flavor
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – for coating beef and thickening the broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to season the flour and balance flavors
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for subtle heat
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – enhances savory depth
• 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the beef and sautéing aromatics
• 1 large onion, chopped – adds sweetness and body
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – for pungency and warmth
• 5 1/2 cups beef broth – the flavorful liquid base
• 3/4 cup red wine (optional) – deepens flavor complexity
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – for acidity and richness
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces – sweetness and texture
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed – hearty starch component
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – earthy herbal note
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – piney, fragrant flavor
• 2 bay leaves – aromatic background
• 1 cup frozen peas – added at the end for color and sweetness

Recommended Tools

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for searing and slow simmering to develop deep flavors.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Sharp chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and trimming beef.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise seasoning and ingredient amounts.
• Ladle: For easy serving and stirring during cooking.

Stepwise Method: Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Start by patting your beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown properly. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Toss the beef cubes in this seasoned flour mixture until each piece is evenly coated. This step not only seasons the beef but also helps thicken the stew later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove browned beef to a plate and set aside. Browning creates those flavorful caramelized bits that enrich the stew’s taste.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes. If you prefer to skip the wine, simply add a bit of broth and scrape the bottom to lift the fond.

Step 5: Build the Stew

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, coating the meat and onions evenly. Pour in the beef broth and add the carrots, potatoes, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 6: Simmer Low and Slow

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking breaks down the beef and melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich, tender stew.

Step 7: Finish with Peas

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Cover and cook until peas are heated through and tender. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the beef stew into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth. For a perfect pairing, try serving alongside Buttered Red Potatoes With Dill or a side of Dirty Rice Popeyes Cajun Rice for a hearty meal.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Swap beef chuck with lamb shoulder cubes for a richer flavor profile.
• Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter stew variation.
• Replace red wine with pomegranate juice or extra broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Substitute carrots with parsnips or turnips for a slightly different root vegetable twist.
• Try sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Coating the beef in flour before browning is crucial to developing a thick, hearty stew. Don’t skip this step.
• For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika during the simmering stage.
• Patience pays off! Allow the stew to simmer gently and slowly for the best tenderness and flavor melding.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Save It for Later

This Beef Stew Recipe freezes beautifully in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Cool completely before freezing and consume within 3 months for optimal flavor. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender. Add peas in the last 30 minutes to maintain their color and texture.

What cut of beef is best for stew?

Beef chuck is ideal for stew because it contains enough fat and connective tissue to become tender and flavorful during slow cooking. Other options include brisket or round, but chuck tends to give the best balance of tenderness and richness.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes! If using fresh herbs, increase the quantity by about three times since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors.

Is it necessary to add red wine?

Red wine adds a lovely depth and complexity, but it’s optional. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with extra beef broth or pomegranate juice to maintain a rich flavor.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Instant Pot Barbacoa Beef – A bold and spicy shredded beef recipe perfect for tacos and bowls.
• Buttered Red Potatoes With Dill – Creamy and aromatic potatoes that pair wonderfully with stews.
• Dirty Rice Popeyes Cajun Rice – A flavorful rice dish that brings a Cajun kick to your dinner table.

The Last Word

This Beef Stew Recipe combines simple ingredients with thoughtful preparation to deliver a dish that’s rich, comforting, and truly timeless. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this stew promises tender beef, luscious broth, and veggies cooked to perfection. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and create lasting memories around the table. So grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and dive into a bowl of pure comfort tonight.

Share on Pinterest