There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a slow-simmering beef stew filling the kitchen on a chilly day. This Hearty Beef Stew recipe is pure comfort in a bowl—loaded with tender beef, creamy potatoes, sweet carrots, and the warming flavors of rosemary and thyme. It’s a classic one-pot meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.
This stew is inspired by those cozy evenings at my nonna’s kitchen table—warm bread in hand, stories being shared, and every spoonful a taste of love. Let’s recreate that experience with this simple, flavorful recipe.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4–6
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 medium potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Working in batches, brown the meat on all sides (3–4 minutes per batch). Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, lower heat to medium and add diced onions. Sauté until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Deglaze and Add Flavor
- Stir in tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth, scraping up browned bits.
4. Build the Stew
- Return beef to the pot.
- Add the remaining broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in flour if using, to thicken.
5. Simmer Low and Slow
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Veggies
- Add potatoes and carrots.
- Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until beef and vegetables are tender.
7. Taste and Serve
- Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or buttery rolls.
💡 Tips for Success
- Slow Cooker Friendly: After browning meat and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. Add a flour slurry during the last 30 minutes for thickness.
- Veggie Boost: Add celery, mushrooms, or parsnips for variety.
- Make Ahead: Even better the next day! Store refrigerated for 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef Stew
- Rich and Flavorful: Simmered with herbs, tomato paste, and broth for deep flavor.
- Filling and Nourishing: Protein-packed and loaded with wholesome veggies.
- Versatile: Easy to adapt with different vegetables or cooking methods.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Classic Combo: Crusty sourdough or garlic bread.
- Brunch Favorite: Serve in mugs with a side salad.
- Date Night: Pair with red wine and candlelight for cozy vibes.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This Hearty Beef Stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, it brings warmth and satisfaction to every spoonful. Don’t forget to let the flavors develop overnight—if you have leftovers, tomorrow’s bowl will taste even better!