Classic Beef Stew

Classic beef stew is a timeless, hearty dish made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered slowly in a rich, savory broth. Comforting and flavorful, this one-pot meal is ideal for cold evenings, family dinners, or make-ahead meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, rich flavor from slow-simmered beef and vegetables
• One-pot convenience makes for easy cleanup
• Great for leftovers—flavor improves the next day
• Simple ingredients with outstanding results
• Can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef chuck or stew meat, cut into chunks
• Salt and black pepper
• All-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Red wine (optional)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Bay leaves
• Dried thyme
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Optionally, dredge in flour for a thicker stew.
2. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onions until soft, then add garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
6. Add carrots and potatoes. Simmer uncovered for another 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender and broth has thickened slightly.
7. Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 to 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2½ to 3 hours
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

• Slow cooker version: Brown beef and onions, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.
• Instant Pot version: Use sauté mode to brown beef and onions, then pressure cook for 35 minutes with a natural release.
• Add-ins: Mushrooms, green beans, sweet potatoes, or peas
• Thickener: Mix cornstarch with water and stir in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a thicker broth
• Herb twist: Try adding rosemary, marjoram, or Italian seasoning

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, or microwave individual portions until hot
• Tip: Add a splash of water or broth if the stew thickens too much after storage

FAQs

What cut of beef should I use for stew?

Beef chuck is best. It becomes tender and flavorful after long, slow cooking.

Why dredge the beef in flour?

It helps thicken the stew and gives the meat a flavorful crust when browning.

Can I make it without wine?

Yes. Just replace the wine with more beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.

How do I keep vegetables from getting mushy?

Add them later in the cooking process and avoid overcooking.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Skip the flour or use a gluten-free flour alternative to keep it gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes. Celery, mushrooms, or parsnips work well. Add them based on how long they need to cook.

How do I thicken the stew?

Simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or stir in a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.

What herbs pair well with beef stew?

Thyme, bay leaf, rosemary, and parsley are traditional options.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely. Beef stew tastes even better after a day in the fridge.

What should I serve with beef stew?

Crusty bread, buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Classic beef stew is the ultimate comfort food—rich, satisfying, and brimming with hearty ingredients. With simple techniques and versatile components, it’s a dish that will warm your table and your appetite, especially on cold or cozy evenings. Perfect for family dinners or freezer-friendly meal prep, this stew never goes out of style.

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