Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot, the rich aroma of my Classic Beef Stew enveloped the kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy evenings spent with loved ones. There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a one-pot meal filled with tender beef, vibrant root vegetables, and a savory broth that warms both your belly and soul. This comforting dish not only showcases effortless preparation, but it also saves time during busy weeks with its meal prep-friendly nature. Imagine indulging in the flavors of deep, simmered goodness that only gets better with the passing days. Are you ready to embrace the ultimate comfort food that guarantees smiles around the dinner table? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why Is This Beef Stew So Comforting? Perfect for chilly nights: This Classic Beef Stew warms your heart and home with its rich, savory aroma, making it a go-to meal for fall and winter. One-pot wonder: Simplify your cooking with this easy recipe that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it later; the flavors deepen so each serving is even better! Crowd-pleaser: Gather family and friends around the table—everyone will love this hearty dish, just like my Garlic Butter Beef roll-ups. Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or customize the recipe to suit dietary needs, ensuring you always have a hearty meal ready. Nutritionally balanced: With protein, fiber, and a variety of veggies, this stew is filling without being heavy, satisfying all while keeping health in mind. Beef Stew Ingredients • Here’s what you’ll need for a comforting beef stew! For the Stew Beef Stew Meat – Provides protein and rich flavor; chuck roast works well in this beef stew. Kosher Salt – Enhances overall taste, so adjust according to your dietary needs. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth to the stew. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Perfect for searing the meat, adding healthy fats to the dish. For the Veggies Yellow Onion – Builds the flavorful base for your stew. Garlic Cloves – Infuses aroma and adds a delightful flavor. Baby White Potatoes – Offers hearty texture; for a low-carb option, try turnips. Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish; sliced on a diagonal for charm. Celery – Provides a crunchy texture and flavor depth. For the Flavor Red Wine Vinegar – Loosens browned bits in the pot while adding acidity; substitute with more beef broth for alcohol-free. Tomato Paste – Contributes richness and a beautiful color to the broth. Arrowroot Powder (or other flour) – Thickens the stew without heaviness; cornstarch can also be a great alternative. Red Wine – Deepens the flavor significantly; if avoiding alcohol, more beef broth will do the trick. Low-Sodium Beef Broth – Serves as the liquid base for the stew’s deliciousness. For the Aromatics Dried Thyme – Adds an earthy flavor to the mix. Bay Leaves – Infuse aroma during simmering—make sure to remove them before serving. For Garnish Fresh Thyme (Optional) – Brightens the dish’s appearance and taste; a beautiful touch to finish! Now you’re all set to create a bowl of warmth with this delightful beef stew! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Hearty Beef Stew Step 1: Season the Beef Begin by patting the beef stew meat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Generously season the beef with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step is crucial to building a flavorful foundation for your Classic Beef Stew. Step 2: Sear the Beef In a large Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the beef in a single layer, searing for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when a rich crust forms. Once seared, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic In the same pot, add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. Pour in a splash of red wine vinegar to deglaze, carefully scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing until combined and fragrant, creating a rich flavor base for the stew. Step 4: Return Beef to Pot Add the seared beef back into the pot, mixing to combine with the sautéed onion and garlic. Sprinkle with arrowroot powder (or flour), stirring until it dissolves evenly throughout. This will help thicken the stew later, ensuring a luxurious texture in your Classic Beef Stew. Step 5: Add Liquids and Aromatics Pour in a cup of red wine, followed by 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth, stirring gently to combine. Toss in the dried thyme and bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 6: Add Vegetables After the initial simmer, stir in the baby white potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery into the pot. Cover again and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the stew is rich and flavorful. Check the doneness by easily piercing a potato with a fork; it should slide right through. Step 7: Serve Lastly, remove the bay leaves from the pot and taste the stew, adjusting seasoning if needed. Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh thyme if desired. Serve your comforting Classic Beef Stew warm, possibly alongside crusty bread, to soak up all the deliciousness! How to Store and Freeze Beef Stew Fridge: Once cooled, store beef stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even further, enhancing the taste for your next serving. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef stew in portioned airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. This makes meal prep a breeze and ensures you always have comfort food on hand. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the stew’s original consistency. Make-Ahead Magic: Freezing your beef stew not only saves time but also deepens the flavors, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you want a delicious and satisfying meal. Beef Stew Variations & Substitutions Embrace the chance to tailor your beef stew to your tastes and pantry staples with these delightful tweaks! Dairy-Free: Omit any dairy garnishes and ensure your broth is free from dairy products for a family-friendly option suitable for everyone. Root Vegetable Swap: Try using parsnips or rutabaga instead of potatoes for a delightful earthy flavor. This small change can elevate your stew in seasonal charm! Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. It’s a simple twist that transforms your comforting stew into something fiery! Flavor Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost that enhances the savory depth of your stew. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary—add them right at the end for a burst of freshness. Each herb offers a unique flair that takes the stew to new heights. Vegetarian Style: Replace beef with hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on richness. You’ll still enjoy a satisfying and cozy meal. Slow-Cooker Adaptation: Prep everything as stated, but toss it into a slow cooker instead. Let it simmer for 6-8 hours for flavors that meld beautifully, making your kitchen smell divine. Freezing Remainder: If you have any leftovers after a big meal, don’t let them go to waste! This beef stew freezes beautifully, so portion it out for future cozy dinners. Each serving will retain its hearty charm, just like your first batch. For more delicious options, check out my French Style Beef stew or try my savory Garlic Butter Beef roll-ups for a fantastic flavor experience. Enjoy experimenting with your beef stew! What to Serve with Classic Hearty Beef Stew To complete your comforting meal, consider these inviting pairings that enhance the cozy flavors of the stew. Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth, crispy on the outside and soft within makes each bite delightful. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery potatoes add a velvety texture that complements the stew’s hearty essence. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the stew. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Slightly charred and caramelized, they add a touch of sweetness and crunchy texture that pairs beautifully. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and fluffy, they make a delicious side for spooning up the savory broth. Sauvignon Blanc or Malbec: A glass of crisp white or a full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of your savory beef stew, creating an elevated dining experience. Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm and spiced treat offers a sweet end to your cozy winter meal, with comforting textures of soft fruit and crunchy topping. Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch from pickled veggies can cut through the richness of the stew, adding a refreshing contrast. Expert Tips for Classic Beef Stew Brown Meat Thoroughly: Ensure each piece of beef is well-seared for maximum flavor development, enhancing the overall taste of your beef stew. Optimize Thickness: Start with a modest amount of arrowroot powder, gradually adding more to reach your desired stew consistency without making it too thick. Let It Rest: Allow your beef stew to sit for a few minutes before serving; this resting time amplifies the flavors, making each bite even more satisfying. Fresh Herbs Matter: Garnish with fresh thyme right before serving to elevate the aroma and taste of your classic beef stew. Avoid Overcooking Vegetables: Add veggies at the right time and check for doneness to ensure they stay tender and vibrant without becoming mushy. Freeze for Later: This beef stew is perfect for freezing—portion it out and store for a hearty, reheatable meal that delivers cozy comfort any night! Make Ahead Options These Classic Beef Stew is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy heartwarming comfort on busy weeknights! You can chop and refrigerate the vegetables (baby potatoes, carrots, and celery) up to 3 days ahead to save time. Additionally, the beef can be seasoned and seared a day in advance, stored in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic, adding your liquids and aromatics, then let it simmer for about an hour until everything is tender and flavors meld beautifully. Preparing this stew in advance ensures you’ll save precious time without sacrificing taste, leaving you with a deliciously comforting meal that’s just as delightful as the day it was made! Classic Hearty Beef Stew Recipe FAQs What kind of beef should I use for the stew? I recommend using beef stew meat, typically chuck roast cut into cubes. This cut is well-marbled and becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow, creating a rich and flavorful stew. How long can I store leftover beef stew in the fridge? Once cooled, you can store leftover beef stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic meal prep option because the flavors only intensify over time, making each subsequent serving just as delightful! Can I freeze the beef stew? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, let the stew cool fully before transferring it into portioned airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. Your beef stew will stay good for up to 3 months. For easy reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stove. How do I adjust the thickness if my stew turns out too thin? If your beef stew is too thin, start by mixing a tablespoon of arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a bit of cold broth or water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into your simmering stew, allowing it to cook for a few more minutes until it thickens. This method helps avoid clumps while reaching your desired consistency! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Yes! If anyone in your household has a gluten sensitivity, opt for cornstarch instead of arrowroot powder or flour for thickening. Also, consider using beef broth labeled as gluten-free. For a lower-carb variation, substitute baby white potatoes with turnips or parsnips. Always keep personal dietary needs in mind when cooking! Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme? Very! If you have fresh thyme on hand, feel free to use it for a vibrant touch in both the stew and as a garnish. I find using fresh herbs adds an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the overall comforting profile of your beef stew. Savory Beef Stew: Your Cozy Comfort Food for Chilly Nights This comforting beef stew is the perfect hearty meal for chilly nights, filled with tender beef, root vegetables, and a savory broth. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 6 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Stew2 lbs Beef Stew Meat Chuck roast is recommended.1 tbsp Kosher Salt Adjust according to dietary needs.1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil For searing the meat.For the Veggies1 medium Yellow Onion Diced.3 cloves Garlic Cloves Minced.1 lbs Baby White Potatoes Chopped.2 medium Carrots Sliced on a diagonal.2 stalks Celery Chopped.For the Flavor1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with beef broth for alcohol-free.2 tbsp Tomato Paste1 tbsp Arrowroot Powder Can substitute with other flour.1 cup Red Wine Can substitute with more beef broth.4 cups Low-Sodium Beef BrothFor the Aromatics1 tsp Dried Thyme2 leaves Bay Leaves Remove before serving.For Garnish1 tsp Fresh Thyme Optional. Equipment Dutch oven Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Hearty Beef StewBegin by patting the beef stew meat dry with paper towels. Season the beef with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.In a large Dutch oven, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, searing for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.In the same pot, add diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes. Deglaze with red wine vinegar and add tomato paste.Return the seared beef to the pot and sprinkle with arrowroot powder, stirring to combine.Pour in red wine and beef broth, add dried thyme and bay leaves, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour.Stir in the baby white potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cover and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until vegetables are tender.Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 4mg NotesThis stew is perfect for freezing. Portion it out and store for a hearty, reheatable meal that delivers cozy comfort any night! Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
