Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 carrots, peeled and sliced; 3 potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your holiday gatherings with this Ultimate Comfort Food Easy Beef Stew Recipe. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich flavors, this dish is a classic favorite that brings comfort and satisfaction to any Thanksgiving table. Perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners, this stew will have everyone asking for seconds.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-01T16:06:15.004Z

This beef stew recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and joy to countless family gatherings. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef
Hearty vegetables that add nutrition and flavor
Rich, savory broth that warms your soul
Perfect for leftovers and meal prep

      

The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion

This Easy Beef Stew is the ideal recipe to have in your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or preparing a family dinner during a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to impress. Its heartwarming flavors and appealing presentation will make it a centerpiece on your dining table, encouraging everyone to gather around and enjoy a meal together.

Not only does this stew taste incredible, but it also fills the kitchen with enticing aromas that make everyone feel at home. It’s a comforting dish that embodies the spirit of togetherness, making it perfect for get-togethers with family and friends. Each bite offers a delightful mix of tenderness and robust flavors, ensuring happy faces and satisfied stomachs.

Nutritional Benefits of Beef Stew

In addition to being delicious, this Easy Beef Stew is packed with nutritional benefits. The beef provides high-quality protein that is essential for maintaining muscle mass and improving overall health. Combined with rich vegetables like carrots and potatoes, this stew is not only comforting but nourishing as well.

Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants that promote good vision, skin health, and lower cholesterol levels. Potatoes offer essential carbohydrates for energy along with vitamins B6 and C. Together, these ingredients make this stew a wholesome meal, perfect for cozy dinners when hearty nutrition matters most.

Tips for Making the Best Beef Stew

To enhance the flavor profile of your Easy Beef Stew, consider marinating the beef cubes in a mixture of red wine and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with deeper, richer flavors. Additionally, using quality beef broth can elevate the overall taste of the stew, making it even more satisfying.

Another tip is to experiment with additional vegetables; adding parsnips, celery, or even mushrooms can give the stew a unique twist. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking for a velvety consistency.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you start cooking for the best results.

Cooking Steps

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until translucent, then add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for a few more minutes.

Add the Broth and Simmer

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.

Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. It also freezes well, so if you want to make a larger batch, simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy the stew again, simply transfer it to a pot and heat it gently over medium heat. If it appears too thick, you can add a dash of beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Reheating in the microwave is also an option, but be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even warming.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your beef stew experience, consider serving it with freshly baked bread or a side salad. A crusty baguette or dinner rolls are fantastic for dipping into the rich broth, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to your meal. Salads with light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables also complement the heartiness of the stew perfectly.

For an added touch of luxury, a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme as a garnish can brighten up the dish. Additionally, offering a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can add creaminess and richness, making every spoonful delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use stew meat or round steak if preferred.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.