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 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, sliced; 4 potatoes, cubed; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is perfect for a comforting meal that warms your soul.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:46:15.156Z

This beef stew is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to your dining table. With tender pieces of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it's a dish that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that deepen over time
Tender meat that falls apart with a fork
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of beef stew. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also nourishing. This stew is the epitome of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. As the stew simmers, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas that will entice everyone to gather around the table.

Beef stew is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a thicker gravy or a lighter broth, this recipe allows for adjustments to create your perfect version. With its robust flavors and hearty ingredients, this stew is sure to become a staple in your home.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this hearty beef stew is its suitability for meal prep. It can be made in large batches and stored for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze. After cooking, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a home-cooked meal ready at a moment's notice.

When reheating, simply thaw if frozen and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to restore its consistency, as stews tend to thicken upon refrigeration. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious, comforting meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking from scratch each day.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your beef stew experience, consider what to serve alongside it. Crusty bread is a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up the rich broth. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the hearty flavors of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast. Additionally, a glass of red wine can enhance the dining experience, echoing the flavors infused in the stew itself.

For those seeking a heartier meal, consider serving the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables. These side dishes will not only enhance the flavor but also add texture and color to your plate, making for a more visually appealing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, cubed
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Steps to Prepare

Sear the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic, and sauté until softened. Stir in carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the beef back to the pot, along with beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This stew tastes even better the next day!

Nutritional Benefits

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is not just delicious; it also boasts several nutritional benefits. Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The inclusion of various vegetables like carrots and potatoes adds essential vitamins and minerals to the dish, contributing to a balanced meal.

Moreover, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the collagen from the beef enriches the broth, giving it a silky texture. This makes every spoonful not only comforting but also beneficial for your joints and overall health.

Cooking Variations

While this recipe for beef stew is tried and true, don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it! Adding different vegetables, such as green beans or peas, can introduce new flavors and textures. You can also experiment with spices, such as paprika or cayenne, for an added kick. For a gluten-free option, ensure the broth and any other ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

If you prefer a different protein, feel free to substitute the beef with chicken or turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as poultry will cook faster than beef. These variations can keep the recipe fresh and exciting for your family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is ideal for stewing.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ How long does the stew last in the fridge?

It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add your favorites like peas, green beans, or mushrooms!