There’s something magical about that first whiff of a simmering stew. It transports you to a cozy evening, the soft sound of crackling in the kitchen. This BEST EVER BEEF STEW is trending everywhere on TikTok and Pinterest for a reason people are falling back in love with the heartwarming comfort it brings!
This recipe features tender beef, root vegetables, and rich, savory broth. It’s like your grandma’s version, but faster and easier! Perfect as a family favorite or freezer meal for busy nights. Full details in the blog!
This Best Ever Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for chilly days. The ever beef stew recipe features tender beef, classic guinness beef stew slow cooked style, and wholesome vegetables for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds beef chuck roast cut into chunks
4 yellow potatoes peeled and chopped
4 carrots peeled and chopped
1 onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Mix flour with salt and pepper, then toss the beef chunks in this mixture.
Warm olive oil in a large pot and brown the beef evenly on all sides in small batches, then set aside.
Using the same pot, cook the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for one minute.
Blend in tomato paste and sauté for two minutes before adding some beef broth to lift the browned bits.
Put the beef back in, add potatoes, carrots, extra broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme.
Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for two to two and a half hours.
Discard bay leaves, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
Notes
For even deeper flavor, brown the beef in small batches to avoid steaming
Stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld
To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months
Cook Time:2 hours 50 minutes
Method:Stovetop
Nutrition
Serving Size:1.5 cups
Calories:480
Sugar:4g
Sodium:690mg
Fat:24g
Saturated Fat:9g
Unsaturated Fat:13g
Trans Fat:0g
Carbohydrates:32g
Fiber:4g
Protein:35g
Cholesterol:95mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Oh, this Best Ever Beef Stew is more than just food; it’s the embodiment of warmth and family togetherness. Every time I make this dish, I’m taken back to those cozy evenings when my family would gather around the table, coming into the room with laughter and stories to share. This stew captures that magic in every spoonful!
It’s perfect for a chilly night when you need something hearty yet comforting. This stew is forgiving and adaptable, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser, delighting kids and adults alike who love digging into tender beef and veggies swimming in that rich broth.
Another reason it stands out is its simplicitynothing complicated here! Just good, wholesome ingredients coming together in a deliciously nostalgic way that wraps you in cozy blanket vibes.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Let’s chat about what you need for this hearty tender beef vegetable stew. Here’s a cozy little breakdown of the ingredients and tools that’ll make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:
Beef chuck roast: The star of our dish! Cut it into chunks for even cooking and tenderness.
Vegetables: Yellow potatoes, carrots, and onions join forces, providing a delightful sweetness and comfort.
Garlic and tomato paste: They bring in that savory kick we love in a good stew.
Beef broth: This forms the base for our flavor, adding rich depth to every bite.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds depthyou’re going to love it!
For tools, grab a large pot or Dutch oven (your best friend here), a wooden spoon for stirring, and a good knife for chopping. These simple tools turn cooking into a delightful experience.
Simple Steps to Make It
Start the day off right by coating the beef chunks with flour, salt, and pepper. This helps create that beautiful crust when you brown them.
Heat some olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Brown the beef on all sides in batchesdon’t rush this step; it’s where the flavor gets built. Set it aside when done.
In the same pot, add onions and sauté until they’re translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just for a minuteoh, that aroma!
Now, stir in the tomato paste, letting it soften for about two minutes. Don’t forget to scrape those tasty bits from the bottom of the pot with a little beef broth.
Return the beef to the pot and add the rest of the ingredients: potatoes, carrots, remaining broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Give it a hearty stir!
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours, coveredtrust me, patience is key here!
When the time is up, remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed before serving.
Easy Customizations
This stew is pretty forgiving, so feel free to tweak it based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to personalize your heartwarming bowl:
Swap the veggies: Feel free to toss in whatever root vegetables you likeparsnips and turnips are fantastic additions!
Add some herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can elevate your stew even more. Just toss them in towards the end!
For a thicker stew: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a little cornstarch mixed with water at the end.
How to Serve & Store
This best ever beef stew is best served hot in a comforting bowl, perfect for dipping crusty bread or rolls to soak up all that delicious broth. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Storage Tip: Let any leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep great for about 3-4 days. Want to make it even more convenient? Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 monthsperfect for busy days when you need a quick, hearty meal!
Storage Method
Time
Refrigerator
3-4 days
Freezer
Up to 3 months
Expert Says
For the BEST EVER BEEF STEW, using well-marbled cuts brings out the richest flavors. The fat melts during cooking, infusing the dish with moisture and depth. Additionally, a slow simmer allows collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in a tender texture that enhances the overall comfort of this classic dish.
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The Evolution of My Best Ever Beef Stew
This best ever beef stew took countless attempts to perfect, and let me tell you, I learned the hard way that not all red wines are suitable for cooking. After a few over-seasoned dishes and a smoky kitchen mishap, I finally found the right balance of flavors that warms the soul and brings my family together on chilly nights.
FAQs ( Best Ever Beef Stew )
How long to cook beef stew in the oven?
For a rich and flavorful dish, cook in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 2.5 to 3 hours. This low and slow method ensures the meat becomes tender and infuses the sauce with deep flavor.
What is the best cut of beef for stew?
Chuck roast is ideal for stew due to its marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking, resulting in a tender texture. Other good options include brisket or round cuts.
Can I use red wine in beef stew?
Absolutely! A dry red wine adds depth and complexity to the flavor. Just be sure to cook it down to concentrate the taste before adding your broth and vegetables.
Can I freeze beef stew?
Yes, this dish is freezer-friendly. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months; just reheat slowly to maintain flavor and texture.
What to serve with beef stew?
Serve it with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a filling meal. A simple green salad can also complement the hearty flavors and bring a fresh balance to the dish.
Conclusion
As you take that first bite of this best ever beef stew, you’ll be enveloped in warmth, with tender beef and hearty vegetables mingling together in a rich, savory broth. The aroma wafting from your kitchen is just an irresistible bonus! You’ll love how easy it is to bring this cozy dish to your table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely family dinners.
For a fun spin, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or swapping in your favorite root veggies. And if you have any leftovers (which is a big ‘if’!), simply let them cool and store in an airtight container. A quick reheat, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready to go in no timea trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen!
I can’t wait to hear how your stew turns out! Did you grow up with a family recipe like this? Snap a picture and share your cozy stew stories. Don’t forget to save this recipe for those chilly days when you need a hug in a bowl. Happy cooking, friends!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
