Hearty Beef Stew

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why make this recipe

Hearty beef stew warms you and fills you. It uses simple ingredients and cooks slowly so the beef becomes soft and the flavors come together. This stew is great for cold days, family dinners, and meal prep.

introduction

This recipe is easy to follow and uses common pantry items. It makes a large pot of food that feeds several people. If you like trying different beef dishes, you may also enjoy a quick noodle option like Asian ground beef noodles for a weeknight change.

how to make Hearty Beef Stew

Follow the simple steps below. Brown the beef first to add flavor. Sauté the onion and garlic so they soften. Add the tomato paste and seasonings, then simmer with broth and vegetables until the beef is tender. Take your time while it simmers for the best texture and taste.

Ingredients :

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes, 4 cups beef broth, 3 carrots, sliced, 3 potatoes, cubed, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, Salt and pepper to taste, 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions :

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove beef and set aside. In the same pot, add onion and garlic; sauté until softened. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Return beef to the pot, add broth, carrots, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

how to serve Hearty Beef Stew

Serve the stew hot in bowls. You can add fresh parsley on top or serve with crusty bread. For a different comfort meal idea, try a classic beef and noodles recipe alongside or on another night.

how to store Hearty Beef Stew

Let the stew cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Hearty Beef Stew

  • Brown the beef in batches so it gets a good sear.
  • Do not rush the simmer; low heat makes the beef tender.
  • Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
  • If the stew is too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
  • If you want thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it in near the end, cooking a few minutes more.

variation (if any)

  • Add a cup of red wine with the broth for deeper flavor.
  • Use pearl onions or add mushrooms for extra texture.
  • Swap potatoes for parsnips or turnips for a different root vegetable mix.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes. Use other slow-cooking cuts like beef brisket or round. They also work well if you cook until tender.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the beef first, then put all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Q: How do I reheat the stew?
A: Warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth or water if it seems thick.

Q: Can I add peas or green beans?
A: Yes. Add peas or green beans in the last 10–15 minutes so they stay bright and not overcooked.

Conclusion

For another take on hearty beef dishes and inspiration, see this detailed recipe for a similar classic: Hearty Beef Stew – A Sweet Pea Chef.

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Hearty Beef Stew

A comforting and hearty beef stew featuring tender beef, vegetables, and rich flavors, perfect for family dinners and cold days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes A good cut for slow cooking.
  • 4 cups beef broth Use low-sodium for better control of saltiness.
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 potatoes, cubed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
Cooking
  1. Return beef to the pot, add broth, carrots, and potatoes.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
  3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Brown the beef in batches for a good sear. Do not rush the simmer; low heat makes the beef tender. Adjust salt and pepper at the end. For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it in near the end.