The Best Homemade Recipe on Beef Stew
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This beef stew recipe feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing comfort with every spoonful. You’ll appreciate how simple it is to make, even if you’re new to cooking.
- Rich, bold flavors: The tender beef and hearty veggies soak up the savory broth, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
- Perfect for leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making meal planning a breeze.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe always wins everyone over.
Recipe
Beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days, combining tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper, then brown in batches for 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Return beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cover and simmer for another 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, mix flour with 1/4 cup of stew liquid until smooth. Stir into the stew to thicken.
- Add peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Notes:
For a richer flavor, substitute part of the water with red wine.
Equipment:
Large pot, cutting board, knife, measuring utensils.
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6–8
Nutrition
Beef stew is a hearty dish packed with protein and nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my beef stew with crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes because they soak up the rich broth so well. A crisp green salad adds a fresh contrast, and I always pair it with a glass of red wine or warm apple cider for extra coziness. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel complete without any fuss.
Side Dishes Pairings
To complement the rich flavors of beef stew, I’d suggest pairing it with sides that balance its hearty goodness. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the savory broth, while crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bite. A crisp green salad adds freshness, cutting through the stew’s richness. Roasted carrots or buttery peas bring sweetness and color to the plate. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up fluffy dumplings to float on top. These sides keep the meal comforting yet balanced. Trust me, the right pairing makes each spoonful even more delicious. What’s your go-to side?
Beverage Suggestions Companion
Now that we’ve covered sides, let’s talk about what to sip alongside that cozy bowl of beef stew. I love pairing it with a rich red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, as they complement the hearty flavors perfectly. If wine’s not your thing, a dark beer, such as a stout or porter, works wonders too. For a non-alcoholic option, try a warm cup of herbal tea or even apple cider—both add a comforting touch. Personally, I think these drink choices elevate the meal, making it feel even more special. What’s your go-to pairing? Cheers!
