Irresistible Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe to Try

There’s nothing quite like the smell of old fashioned beef stew simmering on the stove. The aroma wraps around you like a warm hug, bringing back memories of cozy family dinners. This classic dish is trending right now, and I totally get whycomfort food never goes out of style!

This recipe is all about simplicity and warmth. Picture tender chuck roast, hearty potatoes, and sweet carrots mingling together in a savory gravy. It’s like your grandma’s version, but faster and with an easy twist. Full details in the blog!

Growing up, my mom made this stew on chilly evenings, filling our home with love and deliciousness. It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, and I’ve tested it so you can enjoy every bite. Trust meyou’ll love the secret seasonings that make it even better!

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Why It’s a Family Favorite

This old fashioned beef stew recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It brings back cozy nights spent around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bite is filled with nostalgic flavors that wrap you in memories of simpler times. Plus, it’s easy to make, so there’s less fuss and more fun for everyone!

With melt-in-your-mouth chunks of chuck roast, hearty red potatoes, and vibrant carrots, this dish is a wholesome delight. It’s also budget-friendly, using pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Your family will love it, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your home!

Key Ingredients & Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting stew. Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this meal so memorable:

• Beef Stew Meat: 2 pounds of cubed chuck roast, the star of the dishtender and flavorful.
• Vegetables: Red potatoes, carrots, celery, and pearl onions combine for a hearty mix.
• Seasonings: A sprinkle of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley enhances the flavor beautifully.
• Sauces & Broth: Worcestershire sauce and beef broth create the rich, savory base.
• Tools: A large pot or Dutch oven, a sturdy wooden spoon for stirring, and a measuring cup for accuracy.

Simple Steps to Make It

Making old fashioned beef stew doesn’t have to be complicated! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cozy pot of goodness in no time:

1. Start by dusting the beef with cornstarch, salt, and pepper to give it a nice crust when seared.
2. In your pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking until fragrantabout 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Stir in your vegetables and seasonings, then bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 90 to 120 minutes.
6. Finally, mix cornstarch with cold water, add it to the pot to thicken, and adjust any seasonings to taste.

Cooking Step	Time Required
Browning the Beef	5 minutes
Cooking Garlic and Tomato Paste	1-2 minutes
Simmering Stew	90-120 minutes
Thickening the Stew	5 minutes

Easy Customizations

This recipe is fantastic as is, but if you want to jazz it up a notch, here are a few tweaks you can try:

• Swap the Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, green beans, or other vegetables you have on hand. They’ll add delightful flavors and textures.
• Herbs and Spices: For an enhanced aroma, try adding a bay leaf or a sprinkle of thyme.
• Cooking Method: You can also use a slow cooker if you prefer! Just sear the beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it cook for 6–8 hours.

How to Serve & Store

Serving this hearty homemade beef stew is as simple as ladling it into bowls alongside warm bread or biscuits. It’s perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for an extra pop of color!

For storing, this stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove until hot and bubbling. It also freezes beautifullyjust portion it into freezer-safe containers to have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.

Expert Says

For a truly hearty OLD FASHIONED BEEF STEW, choosing the right cut of meat is essential. Well-marbled cuts like chuck not only enhance flavor but also tenderize during slow cooking, making the stew rich and satisfying. The long simmering breaks down collagen, creating a beautifully thick and hearty broth.

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The Labor of Love Behind Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Perfecting this old fashioned beef stew was a delightful journey, filled with plenty of trialsincluding one memorable time I accidentally added too much salt! Eventually, the flavors melded beautifully, and now each bowl brings back warm memories of family dinners and the comfort of home.

FAQs ( Old Fashioned Beef Stew )

Conclusion

You won’t believe how satisfying this old fashioned beef stew turns out after a cozy simmer! The rich aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that evokes cherished memories. After about two hours, your tender chuck roast, vibrant veggies, and flavorful gravy reward you with a comforting bowl of happiness. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a dash of red wine for depth, or swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables for a fresh twist! And if you have leftovers, reheating on the stove brings it back to that fresh-made tastejust as good the next time around. That’s a trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen, and it never fails!

I’d love to hear your stories! Did you grow up enjoying a stew like this? Snap a pic of your creation or share a memory in the comments. Remember to save or share this recipe with loved onesthere’s nothing quite like homemade comfort food to bring everyone together. Happy cooking, friends!