How To Make A Homemade Beef Stew

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of beef stew on a chilly day! This one-pot dish is full of tender beef chunks, vegetables, and a rich, savory broth.


Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

For the Beef Stew:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken)

For the Broth:

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 potatoes, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary (fresh or dried)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for extra thickness, optional)

Instructions

1. Sear the Beef

  • Pat the beef cubes dry and toss with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and flour.
  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  • In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.

3. Build the Broth

  • Pour in red wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits.
  • Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, rosemary, and thyme.
  • Return the seared beef to the pot and stir well.

4. Simmer Until Tender

  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Vegetables

  • Add carrots, potatoes, and celery, then continue to simmer for another 30 minutes until tender.
  • If a thicker broth is desired, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in.

6. Serve & Enjoy

  • Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Crusty bread, garlic toast, or mashed potatoes.
Make it a meal: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Toppings: Fresh parsley, a sprinkle of cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.


Storage & Reheating

✔ Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
✔ Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.


Pro Tips for the Best Beef Stew

Use marbled beef chuck for the most tender, flavorful bites.
Low and slow cooking ensures the beef gets ultra-tender.
Sear the beef first to add depth to the broth.
Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor!


Would you like a slow cooker or Instant Pot version of this recipe? 😊

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