Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Name: Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting flavors of this classic Old Fashioned Beef Stew, perfect for chilly evenings.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:08:01.841Z

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a hearty dish that has been cherished for generations. Its rich flavors and tender chunks of beef, paired with hearty vegetables, make it the ultimate comfort food.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
A medley of vegetables adds vibrant flavors
Easy to make and perfect for batch cooking

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef stew to bring comfort to your evening. This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is not only a feast for the senses but also a wholesome meal that nourishes both body and soul. The rich aroma of slow-cooked beef and vegetables fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

This stew encapsulates the essence of home-cooked meals. The tender beef, combined with hearty vegetables, creates a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, proving that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary flavors.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

To achieve the best results with your beef stew, choose a good quality beef chuck. This cut is ideal for slow cooking, as it becomes exceptionally tender and flavorful when simmered over low heat. Don't rush the browning process; this step is crucial for building depth of flavor in your stew.

Consider adding a splash of red wine to enhance the richness of the broth. Wine not only adds complexity but also complements the beef beautifully. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand; parsnips, celery, or green beans can all be excellent additions.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover beef stew can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights. After your stew has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making the leftovers just as delicious, if not more so, than the first serving.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough. You can also add a little extra broth to loosen the stew if it thickens too much in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew for up to three months, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready at your convenience.

Ingredients

For the Stew

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

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot and add the potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Simmer the Stew

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

Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your hearty Old Fashioned Beef Stew with crusty bread!

Let the stew cool before storing it in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef stew is not just comforting; it also offers several nutritional benefits. The combination of beef and vegetables provides a well-rounded meal rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Beef is an excellent source of iron, which is essential for energy production and muscle health.

The vegetables in the stew, such as carrots and potatoes, contribute fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. This balanced dish can help you maintain your energy levels throughout the day, making it a smart choice for family dinners.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your stew experience, consider pairing it with a rustic loaf of bread. A crusty baguette or a warm sourdough makes for the perfect companion, allowing you to soak up the rich broth. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.

If you're looking for a beverage pairing, a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the flavors of the stew beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a slice of lemon to cleanse the palate.

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.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

It's great with crusty bread, rice, or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.