Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. Packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that warms the heart.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:25:26.007Z

This beef stew recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It brings together simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that everyone loves. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, while the vegetables add a touch of sweetness and texture.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that fill your kitchen with warmth
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
A one-pot meal that's easy to prepare and clean up

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a hearty beef stew. This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe combines the rich flavors of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a dish that not only warms your belly but also your soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual family gatherings, this stew is a timeless classic that brings everyone together around the table.

What makes this beef stew truly special is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to include whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen. Whether you prefer peas, turnips, or green beans, feel free to mix and match to suit your taste and pantry availability.

Health Benefits of Beef Stew

Not only is this Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Beef is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It's also rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which play vital roles in maintaining energy levels and supporting a healthy immune system.

The vegetables in this stew add an extra layer of health benefits. Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which promotes good vision and skin health, while potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates and potassium. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body.

Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

To ensure your beef stew turns out perfectly every time, consider browning the beef properly. This step not only enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction but also adds depth to the overall dish. Take your time and don’t overcrowd the pot; browning in batches will lead to the best results.

Another important tip is to allow the stew to simmer gently. Cooking it on low heat for an extended period helps break down the connective tissues in the beef, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites. If you have the time, preparing the stew a day in advance can enhance the flavors even further, as they have time to develop overnight.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
4 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

These ingredients come together to create a comforting stew that is perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Once the stew is ready, adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy your hearty beef stew as a satisfying meal for any occasion!

Serving Suggestions

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can elevate the presentation and add a pop of color to the dish.

For those looking to add a little crunch, consider serving a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stew. This combination not only enhances the meal but also adds more nutrients to your dinner.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers are one of the best parts of making a beef stew! Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for future meals – beef stew freezes beautifully and can be stored for up to three months.

When reheating, you can do so on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the stew has thickened too much while stored, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Always ensure it's heated through before serving, and enjoy the comforting aromas that will fill your kitchen once again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness after slow cooking.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by adding a cornstarch slurry or by mashing some of the potatoes in the stew.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

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

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

Beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.