Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 3 large carrots, chopped; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. Packed with tender beef and fresh vegetables, this stew is sure to warm your soul.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:25:10.720Z

Growing up, my family always made a big pot of beef stew on cold winter days. The aroma of simmering beef and vegetables filled our home, creating a sense of warmth and comfort. This recipe is an homage to those cherished memories, providing a simple yet delicious meal that brings everyone together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, hearty flavors that comfort the soul
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
A family favorite that warms the heart

      

A Timeless Classic

Beef stew is a classic dish that has stood the test of time. Originating from humble beginnings, it was a meal created to utilize tough cuts of meat and leftover vegetables. Over the years, it has transformed into a beloved comfort food enjoyed by families worldwide. This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe captures the essence of traditional stew while making it accessible and easy to prepare for the home cook.

The beauty of this stew lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether you are enjoying it on a cold winter evening or serving it at a family gathering, each bowl offers warmth and a sense of belonging. The rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as it simmers is enough to make anyone feel at home.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this hearty beef stew delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables provides a well-rounded meal that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. The carrots and potatoes add fiber and essential nutrients, ensuring that you're not just enjoying a comforting dish, but also nourishing your body.

Additionally, beef is an excellent source of iron, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health. This stew can be particularly beneficial for those looking to replenish their iron stores, making it a smart choice for active individuals and families alike.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this beef stew is its versatility in meal prep. You can easily make a large batch, ensuring you have plenty of leftovers for the week ahead. Simply store the stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage. This means you can enjoy a comforting meal any night of the week without the hassle of cooking from scratch each time.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore the stew's original consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge. For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Enjoying your homemade beef stew again has never been easier!

Ingredients

Beef Stew Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
3 large carrots, chopped
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Enhancing Flavor

While this Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to elevate its flavor. Consider adding a splash of red wine when combining ingredients; this adds depth and complexity to the dish. Alternatively, fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can give a bright note that complements the richness of the beef.

For those who enjoy a little spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can provide an exciting kick. Don't hesitate to get creative and tailor the flavors to suit your taste preferences!

Serving Suggestions

This beef stew pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve it with warm, crusty bread or freshly baked dinner rolls to soak up the savory broth. A simple green salad can also be an excellent complement, bringing a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.

If you're looking for a heartier meal, consider serving the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or rice. This not only enhances the meal's filling nature but also creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Variations to Try

While the traditional beef stew is always a hit, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a lighter option, try substituting chicken for beef, and use chicken broth instead. You can also swap in seasonal vegetables, such as parsnips or turnips, for a unique twist.

Vegetarian or vegan versions can be made by replacing the beef with hearty mushrooms or lentils, and using vegetable broth. These variations maintain the comforting essence of stew while catering to a broader range of diets, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this classic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its tenderness.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, peas, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

To thicken the stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.