Ultimate Beef Stew

Name: Ultimate Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 4 carrots, sliced; 4 potatoes, diced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting flavors of a classic dish with our Ultimate Beef Stew, perfect for cold nights and family gatherings.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-21T06:25:56.146Z

This Ultimate Beef Stew recipe has been passed down through generations, embracing the rich flavors of tender beef and hearty vegetables.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors that warm your soul
Tender chunks of beef that melt in your mouth
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

There’s something inherently comforting about a hearty beef stew, especially when the weather turns chilly. This Ultimate Beef Stew embodies that warmth, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas as it simmers away. The combination of tender beef, root vegetables, and rich broth creates a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this stew is sure to please everyone at the table.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its flavor, but also in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family's tastes. Want to throw in some mushrooms or replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes? Go for it! The stew welcomes creativity, allowing you to make it your own while still keeping those classic flavors intact.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the standout features of this Ultimate Beef Stew is its suitability for meal prep. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you'll have delicious, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week. The stew holds up beautifully in the fridge, and its flavors deepen and improve as it sits. This means you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on the busiest of nights without any hassle.

To store, simply let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the Ultimate Beef Stew:

Ingredients

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

Ensure all fresh ingredients are washed and prepared before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ultimate Beef Stew:

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Return the seared beef to the pot.

Simmer

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

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful beef stew!

Serving Suggestions

This Ultimate Beef Stew is delicious on its own, but serving it with crusty bread elevates the experience. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, making each bite even more satisfying. You could also pair it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.

For those looking to add a festive touch, consider topping the stew with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, making your dish visually appealing and even more delicious.

Storing and Reheating

After enjoying your beef stew, you may have leftovers to store. To keep the stew fresh, allow it to cool before transferring it into airtight containers. Proper storage is key to preserving the flavors and textures, ensuring that your stew tastes just as good the next day.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to thin it out. This method helps maintain the integrity of the meat and vegetables, ensuring a delightful meal every time you warm it up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or parsnips according to your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.