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; 3 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 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of this Simple Hearty Beef Stew, perfect for chilly evenings and sharing with family.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:10:24.875Z

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is a timeless classic, combining tender beef with a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, it warms both the heart and the soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that satisfy
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
Versatile recipe that you can customize with seasonal vegetables

      

A Comforting Classic

Beef stew is a quintessential comfort food that warms both the heart and the soul. This Simple Hearty Beef Stew recipe combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth into a delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're coming in from the cold or simply want to enjoy a hearty meal, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.

The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe allows you to enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of home-cooked comfort food.

Customizable for Every Season

One of the best aspects of this beef stew recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to include seasonal vegetables or your family's favorite ingredients. Feel free to swap out carrots and potatoes for parsnips and sweet potatoes, or add in green beans for a pop of color and flavor. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun dish to experiment with throughout the year.

Moreover, this stew can accommodate various dietary preferences. If you're looking to make it lighter, consider using leaner cuts of beef or even substituting beef with hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. The base flavors remain rich and savory, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy a satisfying meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! This beef stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prep or busy days.

When reheating, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it's too thick, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying a warm bowl of this hearty stew on a chilly day is a comforting experience that should not be missed!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create 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
3 potatoes, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious beef stew:

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back into the pot. Stir in beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Stew

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

Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your hearty beef stew!

Enjoy your stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your beef stew experience, consider pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread or warm dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for sopping up the rich broth, adding a delightful texture to your meal. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the stew nicely, providing a fresh contrast to the hearty flavors.

For those who enjoy a glass of wine, a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, can enhance the experience. The wine not only adds depth to the dish but can also be served alongside it, creating a harmonious dining experience that you'll want to savor.

Nutritional Benefits

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The beef provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Additionally, the vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, making this stew a well-rounded meal that supports your dietary needs.

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which promotes good vision and a healthy immune system, while potatoes provide potassium and dietary fiber, aiding digestion. With a mixture of wholesome ingredients, this stew allows you to enjoy a comforting dish without sacrificing nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or even chicken for a different flavor.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

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

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.