What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade beef stew will warm your heart and fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma. It’s easy to make and perfect for any day you need a hearty, comforting meal.
- Rich flavors: Tender beef, savory broth, and veggies come together for a taste that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Simple ingredients: Use pantry staples and fresh veggies you likely already have on hand.
- Versatile and filling: Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a meal that satisfies everyone.
Recipe
Homemade beef stew is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for colder days. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich and tender stew that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides are seared. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add potatoes and continue simmering for another 30 minutes or until beef and vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Notes:
- For thicker stew, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6
Nutrition
This hearty beef stew is packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade beef stew with simple side dishes like roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. Warm, crusty bread, like a baguette or cornbread, is my go-to for soaking up every last bit of that rich broth. It’s the little details like this that turn a cozy stew into a comforting feast.
Side Dishes
When you’re serving up a hearty bowl of beef stew, you’ll want sides that complement its rich flavors without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing it with simple roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts—they add a crispy contrast to the stew’s tenderness. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also works wonders, cutting through the richness. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles soak up the flavorful broth perfectly. Don’t forget rice—it’s a classic choice that lets the stew shine. These sides balance the meal, making every bite feel complete without overwhelming the star of the show.
Bread Pairings
Ever wonder what bread makes beef stew even more satisfying? I’ve found that a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that rich broth. Sometimes, I’ll grab a slice of sourdough—its tangy flavor adds a nice contrast. If I’m feeling cozy, I’ll bake fluffy dinner rolls or even go for a slice of cornbread for a touch of sweetness. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here—just pick something hearty enough to handle the stew’s bold flavors. Trust me, pairing the right bread with beef stew turns a great meal into an unforgettable one.
