The Best Homemade Beef Stew Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade beef stew is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something hearty. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite.
- Simple ingredients: You only need basic pantry staples and fresh veggies to create this delicious meal.
- Rich and savory flavor: The slow cooking process lets the flavors meld together, giving you a taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile and customizable: Add your favorite herbs or swap veggies to make it your own version of comfort food.
Recipe
Homemade beef stew is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cold weather. It features tender chunks of beef simmered with vegetables in a rich, savory broth. This classic recipe is simple to prepare and yields a flavorful meal that tastes even better the next day.
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
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Cover and simmer for another 30-40 minutes, until vegetables and beef are tender.
- Stir in frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Notes:
- For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
Large pot or Dutch oven
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6
Nutrition
This hearty beef stew is packed with essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my beef stew with simple sides that let the rich flavors shine, like buttery mashed potatoes or crisp green beans. A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop, and I sometimes add a tangy salad for balance. Let’s talk about the best pairings to make your meal even more satisfying.
Side Dish Ideas
When you’ve got a hearty bowl of beef stew, you’ll want sides that complement its rich flavors without stealing the show. I always reach for healthy sides like a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. They add freshness to the meal without overpowering the stew. If I’m in a hurry, quick sides like mashed potatoes or buttered rice are my go-to—they’re easy to whip up and soak up that delicious broth. I love how these sides balance the meal, making it feel complete without extra fuss. Perfect for cozy nights in!
Bread Pairings
Bread’s a must-have alongside beef stew, and I’ve found it’s all about choosing the right kind. Fresh baguettes are my go-to—their crisp crust and soft inside soak up the rich broth perfectly. Crusty rolls work just as well, especially when they’re warm and slathered with butter. I love tearing off a piece and dunking it straight into the stew—it’s messy but worth it. If you’re feeling fancy, garlic bread adds a tasty twist. Trust me, skipping the bread is like forgetting the best part. It’s simple, but it makes every bite even better.
