beef stew – recipesshubb

Classic Beef Stew

(Hearty, Comforting, and Full of Flavor)

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a hearty beef stew on a chilly day. Tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth come together to create a meal that warms you from the inside out. Classic beef stew is a staple in kitchens around the world because it’s comforting, filling, and perfect for family dinners.

Whether served with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over rice, this stew is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, as the flavors deepen beautifully when reheated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender, flavorful beef
Rich, savory broth with a hearty texture
Packed with vegetables for nutrition and flavor
Comfort food favorite for all ages
Perfect for make-ahead cooking

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2–2½ hours (stovetop)
Total Time: About 2½–3 hours
Oven/Slow Cooker Option: Yes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate

Ingredients

2 pounds (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1–1½ inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional, adds depth)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
4 medium carrots, cut into chunks
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)
2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring a nice sear on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Add red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up browned bits. Pour in beef broth and add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Return the browned beef to the pot.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Add carrots, potatoes, and celery to the stew. Continue to simmer for 30–40 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Optional: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a small amount of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the stew and cook 5–10 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Finish

Stir in frozen peas if using, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over rice. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

Brown the beef well—it builds rich flavor.
Low and slow cooking ensures tender meat.
Use a mix of vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Deglaze the pot with wine or broth to capture all the flavors.
Make ahead—stew tastes even better the next day.

Variations

Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef and aromatics, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add broth, tomato paste, herbs, and vegetables. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Instant Pot Version: Sauté beef and aromatics in sauté mode, then pressure cook for 35 minutes.
Spicy Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
Root Vegetable Twist: Add parsnips, turnips, or rutabaga for a hearty variation.
Red Wine Lover’s Version: Increase wine to 1½ cups for deeper flavor.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the rich broth
Pair with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
Top with fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or holiday gatherings

Final Thoughts

Classic Beef Stew is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth make it a timeless favorite. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.