Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 3 large carrots, sliced; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:37:09.376Z

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days and family gatherings. The rich flavors of tender beef and fresh vegetables create a dish that warms the heart and soul.

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory flavor that satisfies
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
Versatile recipe to customize with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

The Comfort of Classic Flavors

There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of hearty beef stew. The combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth creates a dish that warms both the body and soul. This recipe embraces classic flavors that have stood the test of time, making it a staple in many households. The savory aroma that fills your kitchen while the stew simmers is an experience that brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy nights in.

Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this stew allows the natural flavors to shine. Each bite offers a perfect balance of meat and vegetables, ensuring that every spoonful is satisfying. With the addition of herbs and spices, the stew transforms into a deliciously complex dish that feels both homey and gourmet.

A Versatile Meal for Every Occasion

One of the best aspects of this hearty beef stew is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you want to add seasonal vegetables, swap beef for an alternative protein, or even make it a vegetarian dish, the options are endless. This adaptability makes it perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy different variations throughout the week.

Planning a gathering? This stew is an excellent choice for feeding a crowd. It can be made in large batches and served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make use of leftover vegetables lurking in your fridge.

Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Stew

To achieve the best flavor and texture, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial. Beef chuck is ideal for stewing because it becomes tender during the long cooking process. Make sure to brown the meat properly to develop a deeper flavor before adding the liquids and vegetables. This step, although simple, significantly enhances the overall taste of the stew.

Don’t forget to season your stew generously with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is balanced, and feel free to experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or parsley for an extra flavor boost. Lastly, allowing the stew to rest for a bit after cooking can help the flavors meld even further, making your meal even more delicious.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
3 large carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

This beef stew is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions for convenience.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the stew. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your beef stew experience, consider serving it with a side of freshly baked bread. Crusty baguettes or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, a green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, balancing the meal beautifully.

For a more rustic touch, try serving the stew in bread bowls. Hollow out individual loaves of bread and fill them with the stew for a fun and interactive dining experience. This not only adds to the presentation but also enhances the flavor as the bread absorbs the stew's delicious juices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness after slow cooking.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

To thicken the stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.