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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 3 carrots, diced; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is the perfect comfort food, packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors. Ideal for chilly days or family gatherings!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:58:15.473Z

This beef stew is a family favorite, bringing together tender chunks of beef and a medley of vegetables in a rich, savory broth. It's an easy recipe that can be made in one pot, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that warm your soul
Hearty vegetables complementing tender beef
Easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a bowl of hearty beef stew. This dish brings warmth and comfort, making it a go-to for family dinners and gatherings. The rich flavors of tender beef, combined with the sweetness of carrots and the earthiness of potatoes, create a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. Each spoonful is packed with nutrition and taste, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves with a full belly and a happy heart.

Moreover, making beef stew is an excellent way to use up any vegetables you have on hand. While this recipe calls for specific ingredients, feel free to get creative! Incorporating seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your stew. This versatility makes it a fun dish to prepare, allowing you to tailor it to your family's preferences.

Meal Prep and Storage

One of the best aspects of this beef stew recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch at once and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. Stews often taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and develop. Simply store the cooled stew in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you're planning to freeze the stew, consider leaving out the peas until you're ready to serve. This way, they will retain their bright green color and texture when added right before serving. Properly stored, this hearty beef stew can last up to three months in the freezer, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Serving Suggestions

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to elevate your meal. Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the rich broth or a side salad for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also add an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Pairing your stew with a glass of red wine can enhance the experience, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner with friends or family.

For a comforting twist, consider serving the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes or egg noodles. This adds heartiness to the dish and makes it even more filling. Whether you choose to keep it simple or dress it up, this beef stew is sure to impress and satisfy any crowd.

Ingredients

Beef Stew Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
3 carrots, diced
2 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons dried thyme
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 and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.

Add Peas and Serve

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Benefits

Beef stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and iron, which are crucial for energy and overall health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded meal. Including a variety of colorful veggies not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile, ensuring you're serving your family a healthy option.

Moreover, the slow cooking process allows the flavors and nutrients of the ingredients to meld together, producing a dish that is both flavorful and nourishing. This makes beef stew a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while still enjoying hearty comfort food.

Tips for Perfecting Your Stew

To achieve the perfect beef stew, the quality of your meat matters. Choosing a well-marbled cut like beef chuck will ensure tenderness and flavor. Don't rush the browning process; allowing the meat to sear properly builds a rich, caramelized flavor base that enhances your stew. Additionally, be mindful of your seasoning; tasting as you go is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

Another pro tip is to let your stew sit for a while after cooking. Allowing it to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors to deepen and develop further. If you have the time, making the stew a day in advance and letting it sit overnight in the fridge will yield even better results!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water or by mashing some of the potatoes.

→ Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

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

→ Can I freeze leftover beef stew?

Yes, beef stew freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.