White Beans and Seasoned Beef (Hearty & Comforting)
White Beans and Seasoned Beef is a rustic, satisfying dish that combines tender beef with creamy white beans simmered in a savory, well-spiced sauce. This one-pot meal is rich in protein, packed with flavor, and perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something nourishing and comforting.
Inspired by traditional home-style cooking, this dish is simple yet deeply flavorful. The beans soak up the seasoned beef juices, creating a hearty meal that can be served on its own or with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pot, easy cleanup
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High-protein and filling
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Budget-friendly ingredients
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Perfect for meal prep
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Comfort food with bold flavor
Ingredients
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1½ lb (700 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 cup beef broth
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2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) white beans, drained and rinsed
(cannellini or navy beans) -
1 bay leaf
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Optional: chopped parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in paprika, cumin, oregano, pepper, and salt. Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Simmer
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 1½ to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
Step 4: Add the Beans
Stir in the white beans and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve white beans and seasoned beef with:
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Crusty bread or flatbread
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Steamed rice or couscous
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Mashed potatoes or polenta
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Simple green salad
Tips for Best Results
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Use chuck or stewing beef for tenderness
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Simmer slowly for rich flavor
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Add beans at the end to keep them creamy
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Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Variations
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Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika
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Mediterranean Style: Add rosemary and lemon zest
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Tomato-Rich: Add crushed tomatoes
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Slow Cooker: Cook beef and spices on low for 7–8 hours, add beans in the last hour
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers for 4 days
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Freeze for up to 3 months
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Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
Final Thoughts
This White Beans and Seasoned Beef dish is a comforting, nourishing meal that brings simple ingredients together in the most satisfying way. Hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy days or relaxed family dinners.