Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Simple Hearty 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 pieces; 4 cups beef broth; 3 medium carrots, sliced; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy this Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe that brings comfort and warmth to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew is packed with tender beef and hearty vegetables.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:13:10.344Z

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. The tender beef, combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creates a deliciously rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and flavorful beef that melts in your mouth
Hearty vegetables that add texture and nutrition
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the chill of winter sets in, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty beef stew to bring comfort and satisfaction. This stew is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings spent with loved ones. The rich flavors of tender beef, combined with the natural sweetness of root vegetables, create a symphony of tastes that will warm your heart and fill your belly.

This Simple Hearty Beef Stew Recipe is designed for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this stew is versatile and filling, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this beef stew is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later, ensuring you always have a hearty meal on hand. The flavors only improve after a day or two, making it a perfect candidate for leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the fuss.

To maximize your meal prep, consider portioning the stew into individual containers. This way, you can grab a serving whenever you need a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. With just a few minutes of reheating, you can have a nutritious meal ready to go, eliminating the need for takeout or unhealthy convenience foods.

Customizing Your Stew

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding other vegetables like green beans, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

If you prefer a thicker stew, simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give your stew a heartier texture that’s perfect for soaking up with crusty bread. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cups beef broth
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

These ingredients will create a rich and hearty beef stew that is sure to satisfy your hunger!

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Once the stew is ready, serve it hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage is key to enjoying your beef stew later. Once cooled, transfer the stew into airtight containers. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen stew, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it seems too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty beef stew is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A crusty loaf of bread or fresh dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the rich broth. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing your stew with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness, making your dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can use lamb or pork as alternatives to beef.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

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

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or any other favorite vegetables.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.