Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine (optional); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:07:13.140Z

This hearty beef stew is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, it combines tender beef with fresh vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that develop beautifully during cooking
Tender beef that melts in your mouth
Simple ingredients that create a satisfying dish

      

The Comfort of Home Cooking

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of beef stew, especially on a chilly evening. This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe not only fills your kitchen with enticing aromas but also creates a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and cozy dinners. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Home-cooked meals are a great way to connect with loved ones, and this stew is perfect for sharing. Whether you're enjoying a quiet dinner with your family or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. With its hearty ingredients and rich taste, it’s bound to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Perfect Pairings

Pairing your beef stew with the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal. Crusty bread is a classic choice, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, while a fresh green salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the stew. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

If you want to indulge further, serve the stew with a glass of robust red wine, which complements the savory flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a rich, creamy mashed potato can be a delightful addition, making the meal even heartier and satisfying.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about this beef stew is that it tastes even better the next day! After the flavors have had time to deepen and meld, you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner. To store, simply let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days.

When you're ready to enjoy your delicious leftovers, reheat the stew gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water if it has thickened too much in the fridge. This ensures that every bite remains as comforting and flavorful as the first.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious beef stew:

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your hearty beef stew:

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Then, add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your hearty beef stew, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

To achieve the most tender beef, it's crucial to choose the right cut. Beef chuck is an excellent choice due to its marbling and connective tissue, which break down during the slow cooking process, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Don't rush the searing step; browning the beef adds a depth of flavor that really enhances the stew.

Also, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Parsnips, turnips, or even mushrooms can add unique flavors and textures to the stew, making it your own.

Nutritional Benefits

This hearty beef stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Beef is a great source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Additionally, the inclusion of root vegetables like carrots and potatoes provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, contributing to a well-rounded meal.

Moreover, the slow-cooking method helps retain the nutrients in the ingredients, making this stew a wholesome option for dinner. It's a fantastic way to nourish your body while enjoying a comforting and flavorful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, cuts like beef brisket or round can also work well in a stew.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add green beans, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Can I freeze the leftover stew?

Yes, beef stew freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.