Ultimate Beef Stew

Name: Ultimate Beef Stew
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; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ultimate Beef Stew is the perfect cozy meal for chilly evenings. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:27:40.000Z

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of beef stew on a cold day. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and with its rich flavors and tender meat, it's easy to see why!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
A one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up

      

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. This Ultimate Beef Stew recipe brings the essence of home-cooked meals right to your table, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The combination of tender beef and hearty vegetables creates a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart.

In today's fast-paced world, taking the time to prepare a homemade meal can feel like a luxury. However, this stew is designed for ease. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that feels like it took all day to prepare, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors without the stress of complicated cooking.

The Nutritional Benefits

Beef stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides essential protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall health. Additionally, the colorful vegetables add a variety of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal that supports your immune system and boosts energy levels.

Carrots and potatoes are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Incorporating these vegetables into your diet can also help manage weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. With this Ultimate Beef Stew, you're not just enjoying a comforting meal; you're also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew

To ensure your beef stew turns out perfectly every time, consider using a good quality beef chuck. This cut is ideal for slow cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful after simmering for a couple of hours. Don’t rush the cooking process; allowing the stew to simmer gently will enhance the flavors and create a rich, luscious broth.

Feel free to customize the stew by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Mushrooms, peas, or even green beans can add extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, such as paprika or rosemary, to give the stew your personal touch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your ultimate beef stew:

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before starting the cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to make the ultimate beef stew:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Simmer the Stew

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade beef stew!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the great things about beef stew is that it tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. To store leftovers, let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the stew on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This makes it a perfect meal prep option, providing quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this Ultimate Beef Stew with a side of crusty bread or buttery biscuits. The bread is perfect for soaking up that rich, flavorful broth, making each bite even more satisfying. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the stew, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

If you're looking to elevate your meal further, a glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, can pair beautifully with the beef's robust flavors. The wine not only enhances the overall dining experience but also adds a touch of sophistication to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck roast is ideal for stews due to its tenderness when cooked.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, green beans, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

→ 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 in the stew.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare it in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.