There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. The rich aroma fills your kitchen, the tender beef practically melts in your mouth, and the hearty vegetables make every spoonful cozy and satisfying. This Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe is simple enough for beginners but full of that classic, homemade flavor we all crave. Whether you’re cooking it on a slow Sunday afternoon or prepping it for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is comfort food at its best.
| Category | Dinner, Comfort Food |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 hours |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~350 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (or extra broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 4 fresh sprigs)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics – In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Build the base – Sprinkle flour over the veggies, stirring well to coat. This helps thicken the stew later.
- Deglaze – Pour in red wine (or broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add everything back in – Return the beef to the pot, then stir in potatoes, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Simmer low and slow – Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender.
- Finish & serve – Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- For extra richness: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of soy sauce before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Thickening tip: If your stew is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the pot and simmer a few more minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Use lamb or chicken thighs instead of beef for a different twist.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or peas for more variety.
- Lighter Version: Skip the wine and use low-sodium broth; you can also replace potatoes with sweet potatoes for a lighter, slightly sweeter option.
Serving Suggestions
This beef stew pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
- A simple green salad to balance the richness.
- Steamed rice or buttered noodles if you want to stretch it into more servings.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe is everything you want in a comforting dinner — hearty, flavorful, and made with love. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and warms you from the inside out. Make a big batch, serve it fresh, and save some for later — because stew always tastes even better the next day.