The Best Homemade Best Beef Stew Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade beef stew is a comforting classic that’s perfect for cozy nights or family dinners. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with just a few steps and basic ingredients. It’s packed with tender beef and hearty vegetables, making each bite feel like a warm hug. The rich, flavorful broth is simmered to perfection, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples and customize it to your taste.

Recipe

A hearty and comforting homemade beef stew is perfect for chilly nights. This dish combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and rich broth for a flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue simmering for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

Notes:

– For a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Equipment:

– Large pot or Dutch oven

Time:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

6-8 servings

Nutrition

This homemade beef stew is hearty and packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving.

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	350	18%
Total Fat	12g	15%
Saturated Fat	4.5g	23%
Cholesterol	70mg	23%
Sodium	600mg	26%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	11%
Dietary Fiber	4g	14%
Sugars	5g	–
Protein	25g	50%
Vitamin D	1mcg	5%
Calcium	60mg	5%
Iron	3.5mg	20%
Potassium	700mg	15%

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade beef stew with side dishes that add texture and flavor, like roasted veggies or a crisp salad. A warm slice of crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that rich, savory broth. What’s your go-to combo when serving stew?

Side Dishes

Nothing complements a hearty beef stew quite like a warm slice of crusty bread to soak up all that rich, savory broth. But let’s not stop there—I love pairing mine with buttery mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for freshness. Roasted root veggies, like carrots and parsnips, add sweetness that balances the stew’s deep flavors. If I’m feeling fancy, a scoop of creamy polenta works wonders. And don’t forget a tangy pickled side, like giardiniera, to cut through the richness. Each bite becomes a little adventure, mixing textures and tastes. Trust me, these sides turn a great stew into an unforgettable meal.

Bread Options

While a bowl of beef stew is already a comfort on its own, adding the right bread takes it to the next level. I love tearing into a crusty baguette—it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich broth. A soft, buttery dinner roll works too, especially if you’re craving something lighter. For a heartier option, try a slice of warm, homemade cornbread—it adds a sweet contrast to the savory stew. And don’t forget garlic bread if you’re feeling indulgent! Trust me, the right bread turns a simple stew into a meal you’ll crave again and again.