There’s something magical about a pot of hearty beef stew simmering on the stove. The savory aroma of tender beef, root vegetables, and rich broth instantly makes the kitchen feel warm and inviting. This is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table—cozy, nourishing, and full of flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, prepping a comforting weekend meal, or just craving a bowl of goodness on a chilly night, this beef stew has you covered. Best of all, it’s simple and beginner-friendly, made with pantry staples and everyday vegetables.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner | 20 mins | 2 hrs | 6 | 380 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced into chunks
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium if preferred)
- 1 cup water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Sear the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches, browning all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and tomato paste.
- Deglaze & build flavor: Pour in beef broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer the stew: Return the beef to the pot, add potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is fork-tender.
- Final touch: Stir in peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve & enjoy: Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Thicker stew: For a thicker texture, mash a few potatoes right into the broth or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Spice control: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, or keep it mild for a family-friendly version.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swaps: Try lamb shoulder or chicken thighs for a different twist on the classic stew.
- Veggie boost: Add parsnips, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms for extra depth and nutrition.
- Lighter version: Use lean beef cuts and swap butter for olive oil to reduce calories while keeping flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with warm crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Conclusion
This Hearty Beef Stew with Vegetables is comfort food at its best—warming, satisfying, and made to share with loved ones. Cook up a pot, gather around the table, and enjoy the cozy flavors that make dinnertime special.