Beef Stew Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This beef stew recipe is perfect for cozy nights, packed with rich flavors and simple steps that anyone can follow. First, it’s incredibly hearty, with tender beef chunks and veggies that melt in your mouth. Second, it’s versatile—you can tweak it with your favorite spices or ingredients. Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze while filling your home with an irresistible aroma.

Recipe

Beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days, combining tender beef chunks with vegetables in a rich, savory broth.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, setting aside once seared.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, water, carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
6. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Notes:

For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 2 hours

Serving: 6

Nutrition

Beef stew is a hearty and nutritious dish, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my beef stew with warm, crusty bread to soak up all that rich broth, and it’s even better if it’s homemade. For a fresh contrast, I’ll add a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, like carrots or green beans, to balance the meal. It’s a simple combo that makes the stew feel even more satisfying.

Bread Options

There’s nothing quite like diving into a bowl of hearty beef stew, and having the perfect bread to go with it just makes it even better. I’m a huge fan of a crusty baguette—its crunchy outside and airy inside are perfect for soaking up that rich, savory broth. If I’m in the mood for something softer, I’ll reach for warm, fluffy dinner rolls. They’re like little clouds of comfort that pair so well with the stew’s robust flavors. Honestly, either option feels like the ideal match, turning a cozy meal into something extra special. Bread really is the ultimate sidekick!

Side Vegetables

A few crisp, colorful vegetables can really round out a bowl of beef stew, adding freshness and balance to the hearty dish. I love pairing it with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes—they’re earthy and sweet, complementing the stew’s richness. Seasonal options are my go-to; in fall, I’ll toss in some Brussels sprouts or butternut squash, while spring calls for asparagus or green beans. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also works wonders. These veggies not only brighten the plate but make the meal feel complete, without stealing the spotlight from the stew.