If you’re craving a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Tender chunks of beef cooked low and slow with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a rich, flavorful broth make this stew a satisfying comfort food classic that’s deceptively simple to prepare. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want something that tastes like love, this stew hits all the right notes, proving that great things come from straightforward ingredients and a little patience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role to build layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty beef chuck that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, to the fresh vegetables that add sweetness and a touch of earthiness, these ingredients create a balanced and inviting dish.
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, becoming wonderfully tender while soaking up all the stew’s flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sear the beef, giving it a delicious caramelized crust that adds depth to the stew.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and forms the flavor base for the stew.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses a lovely aromatic warmth that complements the meat and vegetables.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste: Provides a rich umami kick and beautiful color to the broth.
- 4 cups beef broth: The heart of the stew’s liquid, packing savory goodness into every spoonful.
- 1 cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and a slight tang that brightens the stew’s rich flavors.
- 3 large carrots, sliced into chunks: Sweetness and a firm texture that softens perfectly during cooking.
- 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cubed: These creamy potatoes soak up the stew juices while adding satisfying bite.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped: A subtle savory crunch and aromatic flavor that rounds out the vegetable mix.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuses gentle earthy notes that elevate the stew’s overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a fragrant herbaceous touch that complements the beef beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the stew to that perfect silky consistency.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish that adds color and a touch of herbal zing.
How to Make Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor
Start by heating your olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat the beef cubes dry and generously season them with salt and pepper. Searing the meat in batches ensures each piece gets a rich brown crust that locks in juices and brings incredible flavor to the entire stew. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Using the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add diced onions. Cook them slowly until they soften and develop a caramelized sweetness, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another couple of minutes to deepen those flavors and create a luscious base for the broth.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
If you’re using red wine, pour it into the pot now to deglaze. Scrape up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom—this is where a lot of magic happens. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing its acidity to mellow and perfectly infuse the mixture.
Step 4: Add the Rest and Simmer Low and Slow
Return the seared beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth along with the bay leaves and dried thyme. Toss in chunks of carrots, potatoes, and celery. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to a low simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. Patience here pays off big time as the beef becomes incredibly tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew
Mix the flour with about 1/4 cup of cold water to form a smooth slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This step transforms the liquid into a silky, satisfying sauce that clings to every piece of beef and vegetable for that classic stew feel.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
Remove the bay leaves, taste the stew, and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for a bright burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve this steaming stew hot and get ready for a mouthwatering experience!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic for a good reason—it adds a fresh, vibrant pop that contrasts beautifully with the deep, savory stew. You might also want to toss in a few cracked black pepper flakes or a dollop of sour cream if you like an extra creamy touch.
Side Dishes
This stew is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls is pure bliss. You can also serve it alongside a crisp, green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to add some refreshing crunch and balance to the richness of the stew.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the stew in individual bread bowls for a cozy presentation or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for extra indulgence. If you want to impress guests, garnish with roasted garlic cloves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving to elevate its aromatic appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld, so storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days works perfectly. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating to ensure everything stays beautifully combined.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a later date, this stew freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for the liquid to expand. It will keep well for up to 3 months and be an easy go-to meal when you need a comforting dinner fast.
Reheating
Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat to keep the beef tender and the broth silky. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat and dry out the ingredients.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal because of its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked, you can use other stew meat or brisket. Just keep in mind that leaner cuts might turn out less tender or require adjustments to cooking time.
Is the red wine necessary?
Red wine adds a wonderful depth and complexity but it’s totally optional. If you prefer not to use it, simply replace it with extra beef broth. The stew will still be rich and deeply flavorful.
How can I thicken the stew without flour?
If you want to avoid flour, you can thicken the stew by mashing a few of the cooked potatoes into the broth or using cornstarch mixed with cold water. Both methods will give you that lovely stew thickness without altering flavor.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover beef stew?
The best way is to warm it slowly on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Adding a splash of broth or water helps maintain the perfect consistency. Avoid high heat or microwaving for long periods to keep the beef tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade stew that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delivers comfort in every bite. This Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients, cooked with care and patience, transform into a soul-satisfying meal. I encourage you to give it a try — your family and friends will thank you for the hearty love served up in each bowl.
Print
Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Homemade Beef Stew is a hearty and comforting dish made with tender beef chuck, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it simmers slowly to develop deep flavors and a thick, luscious texture. The optional red wine adds complexity, while fresh parsley garnish brightens the plate. Ideal for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced into chunks
- 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Liquids and Flavorings
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
Thickening and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold water (for mixing with flour)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches, ensuring each piece is browned on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and add diced onions to the same pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add beef broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is fork-tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Thicken the Stew: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking to thicken the broth.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the stew hot, perfect for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can omit the red wine to keep the stew alcohol-free; beef broth alone will still provide great flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and freeze nicely for up to 2 months.
- For extra richness, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar when deglazing.
- Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety.
