Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:13:13.254Z

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is a warm and filling dish that combines tender beef with fresh vegetables in a savory broth. It's a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and flavorful broth that warms your soul
Tender beef that falls apart with every bite
Versatile recipe that allows for your favorite veggies

      

The Perfect Comfort Dish

There's nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to bring warmth and comfort on a chilly day. This dish not only fills your stomach but also your heart. The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables simmered together creates a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household.

The beauty of this Simple Hearty Beef Stew lies in its simplicity. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals any gourmet meal. It's an excellent way to bring the family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers is simply irresistible.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this beef stew recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes or to make use of whatever vegetables you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the carrots and potatoes for your favorite root vegetables like parsnips or turnips. The rich broth will enhance any addition you make, creating a unique twist on this classic dish.

Additionally, if you prefer a different flavor profile, consider adding spices such as paprika or cumin for a smoky touch. You can also experiment with various herbs beyond thyme and rosemary, such as oregano or basil, to give your stew a distinct personality. This adaptability makes it easy to create a unique version of this hearty meal that reflects your culinary preferences.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly can ensure you enjoy the stew for days to come. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, it's best to avoid adding potatoes, as they can become mushy upon reheating.

To reheat, simply place the stew in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the stew has thickened too much, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying this stew on a busy weekday is a great way to make mealtime effortless while savoring that homemade goodness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this hearty stew.

Ingredients

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

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious beef stew.

Sear the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Combine Ingredients

Add the seared beef back into the pot along with the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious homemade beef stew!

Nutritional Benefits

Beef stew is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritional punch. Beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, it provides important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are vital for energy production and overall health. The vegetables in the stew contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal.

The inclusion of carrots and potatoes adds not only flavor but also important antioxidants and complex carbohydrates. This hearty dish can help keep you satisfied for longer, making it a great option for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your beef stew experience, consider pairing it with a hearty bread, such as a rustic sourdough or a warm baguette. Dipping bread into the rich broth is a delightful way to enhance the meal. A simple side salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stew, adding a light and crisp element to your dinner.

For beverages, a glass of red wine, especially if you've used it in the stew, complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can add a refreshing touch without overpowering the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables such as peas or green beans.

→ Is it necessary to use wine?

No, the wine adds depth, but you can replace it with more beef broth if you prefer.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the beef and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.