There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of old-fashioned beef stew. The rich, savory aroma fills the kitchen as it simmers, creating an irresistible warmth that makes you crave a big, hearty serving. Every spoonful is packed with tender beef, soft carrots, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, and a deep, flavorful broth that has been slow-simmered to perfection. This is the kind of meal that brings back memories of cozy family dinners, chilly evenings, and the feeling of home. It’s an old-school classic, and for good reason—it never goes out of style.
What makes this beef stew so special is the slow cooking process that allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The beef becomes incredibly tender, the vegetables soak up the rich broth, and the seasonings develop a depth of flavor that only time and patience can create. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner, a meal prep staple, or a weekend gathering, it’s one of those recipes that never disappoints. Plus, it’s super customizable, so you can swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll have a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
If you’re new to making beef stew, don’t worry! This recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly and easy to follow. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a sturdy pot, a bit of patience, and a hearty appetite. By the end, you’ll have a homemade stew that tastes like it’s been passed down through generations. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this classic beef stew, but let’s talk about the ones that make it truly special. First, the deep, rich flavors make every bite feel like pure comfort. The slow simmering process allows the beef and vegetables to absorb the delicious broth, making the dish taste even better with each passing hour. By the time it’s ready to eat, the flavors have blended beautifully, creating a stew that’s warm, savory, and packed with umami goodness.
Another reason this stew is a must-try is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes, add in some mushrooms for an earthy twist, or throw in a handful of barley for extra heartiness. The recipe is incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for using up leftover vegetables in your fridge. And if you love a little spice, you can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Lastly, this beef stew is a meal prep hero. If you’re someone who likes to have ready-to-eat meals throughout the week, this recipe is a game-changer. The flavors actually get better as they sit, meaning leftovers taste even more incredible the next day. Just store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a cozy meal ready to reheat whenever you need it. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a meal to impress guests, or simply for yourself on a cold night, this stew is a guaranteed win!
Preparation Time and Servings of this Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: 350 kcal
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – The best cut for stews, as it becomes ultra-tender when slow-cooked.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps create a light coating on the beef for better browning and thickens the broth.
- Salt & pepper, to taste – Enhances flavor and balances the richness of the dish.
- 3 tbsp olive oil – Used to brown the beef and sauté the onions for added depth.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Adds a natural sweetness and enhances the base flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a delicious, aromatic kick to the stew.
- 4 cups beef broth – The heart of the stew, giving it a rich, savory base.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste – Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, helping to balance the flavors.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – A classic herb that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 2 bay leaves – Infuses the stew with a subtle, earthy depth.
- 3 carrots, peeled & sliced – Adds a natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 potatoes, peeled & chunked – Helps make the stew more filling and comforting.
- 1 cup frozen peas – Brings a fresh, slightly sweet contrast to the hearty ingredients.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – For a bright, herby finish that lifts the entire dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to make this Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
- Prepare the beef: Start by tossing the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. This step helps create a slight crust when browning, which not only enhances flavor but also thickens the stew later on. Make sure the beef is evenly coated so that it sears properly in the next step.
- Brown the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until a deep golden-brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. If needed, work in batches to ensure proper browning. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
- Simmer the stew: Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth. Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to develop and the beef to become tender.
- Add the vegetables: After the first hour of simmering, add the sliced carrots and chunked potatoes. Stir everything together, cover the pot again, and continue simmering for another 45 minutes to an hour. During this time, the vegetables will become soft, and the broth will thicken slightly, creating that signature hearty texture.
- Final touches: Once the beef and vegetables are tender, remove the bay leaves and stir in the frozen peas. Let the stew cook for another 5 minutes, just until the peas are heated through. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve
This beef stew is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides to make it even more satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery rice. If you want something lighter, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the stew. No matter how you serve it, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the broth.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, celery, or bell peppers for more variety.
- Richer Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami depth.
Storage and Freezing Tips
One of the best things about beef stew is how well it stores and reheats. If you have leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freeze: Let the stew cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Thickening Leftovers: If the stew thickens too much after storage, add a little beef broth or water when reheating.
Special Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot – Distributes heat evenly for slow cooking.
- Wooden Spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching the pot.
- Ladle – Helps scoop up the perfect balance of broth, meat, and veggies.
FAQ
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
How can I make the stew thicker?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
What if my stew is too salty?
Add a peeled potato while simmering—it will absorb excess salt. Remove it before serving.
Final Thoughts
This old-fashioned beef stew is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with deep, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear from you! 😊
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Old-Fashioned Beef Stew – Hearty & Easy Comfort Food Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A classic, slow-simmered beef stew with tender meat, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables. Perfect for family dinners and meal prep!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 carrots, peeled & sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled & chunked
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Toss beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the beef: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot, sear beef on all sides, then remove.
- Sauté veggies: Add remaining oil, cook onions for 5 minutes, then add garlic.
- Simmer stew: Return beef to the pot, add broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Simmer for 1 hour.
- Add vegetables: Stir in carrots and potatoes, cover, and cook for another hour.
- Final touches: Remove bay leaves, add peas, and cook for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat on the stovetop.
- Add mushrooms or celery for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American