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; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 cups carrots, sliced; 2 cups potatoes, diced; 1 cup celery, sliced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 bay leaves; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ultimate Beef Stew is a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with tender meat and a medley of vegetables, it promises warmth and comfort in every bite.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-23T01:45:38.831Z

This Ultimate Beef Stew is not just a meal; it's an experience. Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef becomes incredibly tender, allowing it to absorb the rich flavors of the broth and vegetables. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it brings everyone together around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavor that warms the soul
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
A complete meal in one pot, easy to prepare

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef stew to lift your spirits. This Ultimate Beef Stew combines robust flavors with tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat, making it the quintessential comfort food. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of savory beef and a variety of hearty vegetables, creating a meal that is both nourishing and satisfying.

Beef stew has long been a favorite in many households, and for good reason. Its versatility allows for countless variations, but this recipe stays true to the classic roots that make it so beloved. Whether served on a cold winter evening or at a family gathering, it brings everyone together around the table.

A One-Pot Wonder

One of the best aspects of this Ultimate Beef Stew is its simplicity. This one-pot meal not only saves you time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together. The use of a Dutch oven or large pot ensures that every ingredient is cooked evenly, resulting in a stew that is rich in flavor and texture.

Easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely Sunday dinners. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, even novice cooks will find success in creating this delightful dish. It's the kind of recipe that invites you to gather with loved ones and share stories over a hearty meal.

Customizable and Flavorful

While this Ultimate Beef Stew is delightful as is, it also serves as a fantastic base for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to match your taste preferences. You might consider adding mushrooms for an earthy depth or peas for a pop of color and sweetness.

Additionally, consider experimenting with different types of beef or broth to create new flavor profiles. The beauty of stew is its adaptability; it encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to make a dish that is uniquely yours.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious stew:

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups carrots, sliced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup celery, sliced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ultimate Beef Stew:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Add the beef back to the pot along with the beef broth, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, salt, pepper, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.

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

Remove the bay leaves and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Ultimate Beef Stew!

Enjoy this comforting stew with crusty bread or over rice!

Storage Tips

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, storing your Ultimate Beef Stew is easy. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

This Ultimate Beef Stew pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the rich broth. A simple green salad can add a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty flavors of the stew.

For a more filling meal, serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice. The creamy texture of the potatoes or the fluffy rice will complement the stew perfectly, making for a comforting and satisfying dining experience.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef stew is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins, while the variety of vegetables adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to your meal. Carrots and potatoes contribute not only to the flavor but also to your daily intake of nutrients.

Moreover, this stew is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With each serving, you're enjoying a mix of wholesome ingredients that support a balanced diet, making it a guilt-free indulgence on those chilly nights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round if you prefer, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

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

→ Is it possible to freeze beef stew?

Yes, beef stew freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.