Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 cups beef broth; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your kitchen and your heart with this Easy Beef Stew recipe. Packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, this stew is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, it comes together effortlessly, ensuring you'll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. This classic is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-10-22T02:21:12.565Z

The Benefits of Homemade Beef Stew

Making beef stew at home offers numerous benefits that go beyond mere enjoyment. Firstly, this recipe allows you to control the quality of ingredients. You can select fresh, organic vegetables and high-quality beef, ensuring that your dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Homemade stew is generally more cost-effective than eating out, allowing you to create family meals on a budget without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Furthermore, preparing beef stew can be a therapeutic activity. The process of chopping vegetables, browning meat, and watching the stew simmer brings a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Cooking at home also means you can customize the recipe to cater to your family’s specific tastes and dietary needs, making it a truly personal meal.

Perfect Pairings for Your Beef Stew

Beef stew is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a traditional touch, consider serving it with crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls. These options are perfect for soaking up the rich broth, turning each bite into a delightful experience. If you're looking for something lighter, a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the flavors of the stew beautifully.

Additionally, a side of mashed potatoes or cheesy polenta can enhance the comfort factor of your meal, adding an extra layer of warmth and satisfaction. For the beverage, a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon, is an ideal choice, as it will pair nicely with the hearty flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Beef Stew Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cups beef broth
3 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown on all sides.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty beef stew!

Substitutions and Variations

While this beef stew recipe is classic, feel free to get creative with your ingredients. If you prefer a different cut of meat, brisket or round steak can work just as well. For a lighter option, you could substitute the beef with diced chicken or turkey. Additionally, incorporating a mix of seasonal vegetables like parsnips or green beans can add an interesting twist to the traditional flavor profile.

For those wanting to enhance the stew's flavor further, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar during the simmering process. This will deepen the richness of the broth and add complexity to the dish. Don’t forget to experiment with herbs and spices as well; fresh rosemary or bay leaves can elevate the dish to new heights.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving beef stew, presentation can elevate your meal experience. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of the stew before serving adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. For a touch of luxury, serve the stew in individual ramekins with a flaky pastry crust on top, baked until golden brown, creating a pot pie version that will impress your family and guests.

For an interactive family dinner, consider presenting the ingredients buffet-style, allowing everyone to customize their bowls. Toppings such as grated cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce can add a personal touch and cater to individual tastes, making mealtime both fun and engaging.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize your stew with peas, green beans, or mushrooms according to your preference.