Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting and flavorful beef stew that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:34:16.358Z

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s perfect for chilly evenings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef pieces
Rich and flavorful broth that warms your heart
Simple ingredients that create a comforting meal

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a hearty beef stew to lift your spirits. This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is the epitome of comfort food, perfectly balancing rich flavors with tender meat and fresh vegetables. Each spoonful warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.

The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity. By using just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you create a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul. With the fragrant aroma of herbs and the savory scent of beef wafting through your kitchen, your home will feel inviting and warm.

Cooking Techniques Made Easy

Browning the beef is a crucial step in developing the stew's deep flavor. By searing the meat, you create a beautiful crust that locks in juices and adds richness to the broth. Don’t rush this step; taking your time to brown the beef properly pays off in taste and texture.

Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the stew enhances their natural sweetness and ensures they meld perfectly with the other flavors. This technique enriches the overall profile of the dish, resulting in a stew that is both satisfying and delicious.

Customization Tips

One of the great things about this beef stew recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. For instance, adding peas or green beans can introduce a pop of color and additional nutrients, making the dish even more vibrant.

You can also adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top just before serving for an added touch of freshness.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare your ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process!

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty beef stew!

Storage and Reheating

This beef stew is perfect for meal prep! Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the stew even more delicious the next day.

To reheat, simply warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the stew has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your hearty beef stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth, while a fresh salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm stew.

For a delightful twist, serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or rice. This not only adds another layer of comfort but also helps to soak up all that delicious gravy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but cooking time may vary.

→ Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ Can I freeze the beef stew?

Yes, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad.