Name: Classic Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, sliced into rounds; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1.5 pounds yellow potatoes, cubed; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth, low sodium; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 bay leaves; 4 sprigs fresh thyme

A bowl of Classic Beef Stew is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Packed with tender chunks of beef, hearty root vegetables, and a richly seasoned broth, it brings the comfort of a home-cooked meal to your table with minimal fuss. Whether it’s served solo or ladled over mashed potatoes, this dish never fails to satisfy.

The beauty of this stew lies in its slow-simmered simplicity. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the potatoes and carrots absorb the savory goodness of the broth. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together—perfect for Sunday dinners, cozy nights in, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Beef Stew

Deeply Flavorful: Long simmering infuses the stew with robust flavor and tender textures.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Perfect for Make-Ahead: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Comfort Food Classic: A timeless recipe that never goes out of style.
Versatile: Add mushrooms, peas, or swap in sweet potatoes to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Classic Beef Stew starts with a little prep and the right kitchen companions. Here’s what you need and why it matters:

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Crucial for even heat distribution and long simmering. It’s your best friend for building flavor.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For cutting the beef and vegetables cleanly and efficiently.
Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping up all those browned bits (flavor gold!) from the pot.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures seasoning and liquids are balanced just right.
Cutting Board: Choose a sturdy one for safely prepping your ingredients.

Ingredients for the Classic Beef Stew

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut becomes incredibly tender when slow cooked and adds rich, beefy flavor.
Yellow Potatoes: They hold their shape and soak up the broth beautifully.
Carrots: Add sweetness and color that balance the savory elements.
Celery: Brings depth and classic stew aroma.
Onions: A foundational flavor builder in any stew.
Garlic: Infuses the stew with earthy, aromatic depth.
Tomato Paste: Adds a hint of acidity and richness.
Beef Broth: The base of your stew’s flavor—use low-sodium to control salt.
Worcestershire Sauce: Gives a savory, umami boost.
Bay Leaves & Fresh Thyme: Classic herbs that infuse fragrance and complexity.
Flour: Lightly coats the beef to help thicken the stew.
Olive Oil: For searing the beef and developing that crave-worthy crust.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer.

How To Make the Classic Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot—this step builds deep flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Lower the heat slightly and add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until fragrant and the onions are translucent.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Deglaze

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute or two. Deglaze the pot with a splash of broth or water, scraping up any browned bits.

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours until beef is fork-tender.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

Remove the lid during the last 20 minutes to reduce the broth slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs before serving.

How to Serve and Store Classic Beef Stew

Serving Suggestions:
Ladle your stew into deep bowls and top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even over buttered egg noodles.

Storing Leftovers:
Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?

Simmer uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes, or mix a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it in.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, but chuck roast is best for slow cooking. Stew meat or brisket are suitable alternatives.

Should I peel the potatoes?

It’s up to you! Yellow potatoes have thin skins and don’t require peeling, which adds rustic charm and saves time.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sear the beef and sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.

What herbs work best in beef stew?

Thyme and bay leaves are traditional, but rosemary, parsley, or even a dash of oregano can enhance the flavor.

What wine pairs well with beef stew?

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah pairs beautifully with the richness of the stew.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this hearty Classic Beef Stew, you’ll enjoy exploring these delicious dishes too:

Try this Hearty Italian Sausage Soup for another cozy dinner idea.
For a cheesy twist, the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti delivers comfort in every bite.
Craving a rich pasta? This Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is perfect for weeknight indulgence.
The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings together savory flavors in one satisfying bake.
Or warm up with the bold flavors of Spicy Cheesy Chicken Sausage Pasta Skillet.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen by Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or go traditional? Maybe a splash of red wine? I’d love to hear how you made it your own!