Ultimate Beef Stew

Name: Ultimate Beef Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 large carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich flavors of this Ultimate Beef Stew, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:36:39.071Z

This Ultimate Beef Stew is a family favorite, packed with tender beef and hearty vegetables, simmered to perfection. It's the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, hearty flavors that comfort the soul
Perfectly tender beef that melts in your mouth
Easy to prepare and great for meal prep

      

The Heart of Comfort Food

Beef stew is often considered the epitome of comfort food. As the stew simmers, the rich aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This Ultimate Beef Stew not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or chilly evenings at home. The combination of tender beef and hearty vegetables creates a meal that is both satisfying and wholesome.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite is a burst of savory goodness. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this stew is sure to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor that develops as they cook together, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.

Perfect Pairings

While this Ultimate Beef Stew is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. A loaf of crusty bread is a classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the rich broth. Consider serving a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side to add a light and vibrant contrast to the hearty stew.

If you're looking for a beverage to complement your meal, a robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully with the flavors of the beef and vegetables. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can cleanse the palate and enhance the dining experience.

Make Ahead and Store

One of the great advantages of this Ultimate Beef Stew is its meal prep potential. You can make a large batch and store leftovers for later. After the stew has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making reheated portions even more delicious.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes for an easy and satisfying meal on busy days, ensuring that you have a comforting dish ready at your fingertips.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

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 the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Add the beef back to the pot along with carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Season and Serve

After 2 hours, remove bay leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your hearty beef stew with family and friends!

Tips for the Best Stew

To ensure your beef stew is the best it can be, choose high-quality beef chuck. This cut has the right amount of fat and connective tissue that breaks down beautifully during cooking, resulting in tender meat. Additionally, don’t rush the searing process; taking the time to brown the beef properly will enhance the overall flavor of the stew.

Feel free to customize the vegetables in your stew based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Other great additions include parsnips, mushrooms, or even green beans. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly so that all ingredients are perfectly tender.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Ultimate Beef Stew, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and freshness. This simple touch can elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor. Serve it in deep bowls with a slice of your favorite crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Another option is to serve the stew over a bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting twist. This adds a delightful creaminess to the dish and makes it even more filling, perfect for those chilly nights when you want something truly satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

It's delicious served with crusty bread, over rice, or with a side salad.

→ How do I make it thicker?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.