Description
This Classic Beef Stew is a hearty, comforting meal loaded with tender chunks of beef, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, sweet carrots, and a rich, savory broth. It’s the kind of slow-simmered dish that gets even better the next day — perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
2 ½ pounds beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 4 fresh sprigs
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cut beef into 1.5-inch cubes and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper, then coat in flour.
2. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear beef in batches until browned on all sides. Set aside.
3. In the same pot, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits. Let reduce by half. Add broth, bay leaves, thyme, and return beef to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim off any fat.
6. Add carrots and potatoes. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 more minutes until vegetables are fork-tender.
7. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems. Adjust seasoning. Serve hot with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight and reheat — the stew tastes even better the next day.
Don’t skip browning the beef — it’s essential for a rich, complex base.
If skipping the wine, substitute with extra broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for brightness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 880
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 38
- Cholesterol: 110
Keywords: beef stew, classic comfort food, one pot meal, winter dinner