There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew. Imagine tender chunks of beef simmered slowly until they practically melt in your mouth, mingling with the natural sweetness of carrots, earthy potatoes, and aromatic herbs. This dish is not only filling and flavorful but also a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked meals made with love. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a Sunday gathering, or even meal prep, this stew delivers layers of richness that get even better the next day.
If you’re craving a recipe that’s hearty, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, this classic beef stew is exactly what you need.
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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes – Chuck roast is ideal because it has just the right amount of marbling. Slow cooking transforms it into fork-tender bites full of flavor.
3 tablespoons olive oil – Used for searing the beef, which locks in juices and creates a flavorful base.
1 large onion, diced – Adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the stew with a rich, savory aroma.
4 carrots, sliced into chunks – Provide sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the beef.
3 potatoes, peeled and cubed – Their starch thickens the stew while making it hearty and filling.
2 celery stalks, chopped – Add freshness and subtle flavor.
3 tablespoons tomato paste – Builds body and umami in the broth.
1 cup red wine (optional, can use beef broth instead) – Deglazes the pot, pulling up browned bits for maximum flavor.
4 cups beef broth – The backbone of the stew, keeping it rich and savory.
2 bay leaves – Infuse a subtle herbal note.
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh sprigs) – Enhances the earthy, rustic taste.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing all flavors.
2 tablespoons flour (optional) – Helps thicken the stew to a luscious consistency.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a burst of freshness before serving.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches until browned on all sides. This step is key for developing deep flavor. Remove and set aside.
2. Build the flavor base: In the same pot, sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened and aromatic. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to caramelize.
3. Deglaze the pot: Pour in red wine (or broth) and scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. This step ensures no flavor goes to waste.
4. Simmer the stew: Return the beef to the pot, add broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add vegetables: Stir in carrots and potatoes, then continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, whisk flour with a little broth and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Taste and finish: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
Classic and timeless – It’s a traditional dish that never goes out of style.
Deep, rich flavors – Slow cooking allows every ingredient to meld beautifully.
Perfectly hearty – A full meal in a single bowl with protein, vegetables, and starch.
Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Stew
Brown in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the beef—this ensures a beautiful crust instead of steaming.
Low and slow is key: The longer the stew simmers, the more flavorful and tender the beef becomes.
Add veggies later: Adding potatoes and carrots too early can make them mushy—timing is crucial.
For extra richness: A splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can elevate the broth.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Old-Fashioned Beef Stew with:
Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the savory broth.
A fresh green salad for balance.
A glass of red wine or hearty ale to complement the richness.
It also makes the perfect filling for a bread bowl if you want to impress your guests.
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Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s comfort in a bowl. With tender beef, rustic vegetables, and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table. Simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for a special dinner, this stew is guaranteed to become
a go-to recipe in your home.
Try it once, and you’ll understand why this hearty beef stew has stood the test of time.
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