Easy Beef Stew Recipe: A Comforting Classic Made Simple
Few dishes bring as much comfort as a bowl of homemade beef stew. Tender chunks of beef simmered slowly with hearty vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth — it’s the ultimate comfort food. If you’ve been searching for an easy beef stew recipe that tastes like it simmered all day but requires minimal effort, you’ve found it.
In this post, we’ll guide you through every step — from choosing the best beef to adding the right vegetables and achieving that perfect thick, savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy beef stew recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Stew Recipe
This isn’t your average stew. It’s warm, hearty, and satisfying, with rich layers of flavor developed through slow simmering. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.
- Tender and Flavorful Beef: The meat turns melt-in-your-mouth soft after slow cooking.
- One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup and more flavor!
- Perfect for Leftovers: Beef stew tastes even better the next day.
It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with cozy aromas and your heart with comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Beef Stew Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for the best easy beef stew recipe:
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck roast or round, cut into 1½-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for coating the beef)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor; can replace with more broth)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup peas (added near the end of cooking)
- 1 cup mushrooms, for a deeper, earthier flavor
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (to thicken, if needed)
How to Make Easy Beef Stew (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, easy beef stew recipe that anyone can master.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice brown sear — key for building flavor.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Toss the beef with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Add the beef in batches (avoid crowding the pot) and sear on all sides until browned.
- Remove the beef and set aside.
Pro Tip: Browning the meat adds rich flavor and helps thicken the stew naturally.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed.
- Add the chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
This step builds the base flavor of your stew.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine (or broth if you prefer alcohol-free) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot — that’s pure flavor!
Let the wine simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it gently simmer for about 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
After about 90 minutes, add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue simmering for another 30 minutes, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
If you’re using peas, add them in the last 5–10 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Adjust Thickness and Seasoning
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water, then stir it into the stew. Simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Variations
This easy beef stew recipe can be made using different cooking methods depending on your schedule and tools. Here’s how to adapt it:
1. Slow Cooker Method
Perfect for busy days!
- Brown the beef and onions on the stove, then transfer everything to the slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients (except peas and cornstarch).
- Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until beef is tender.
- Add peas near the end, and thicken if desired.
2. Instant Pot Method
Get rich flavor in less time.
- Use the sauté function to brown the beef and onions.
- Add all ingredients, close the lid, and pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
- Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
- Stir in peas and thicken if needed.
3. Oven Method
For an old-fashioned touch.
- After browning the beef and deglazing, transfer everything to a Dutch oven.
- Bake covered at 325°F (160°C) for about 2½ hours, until tender.
Tips for the Best Easy Beef Stew
- Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal — it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Don’t Skip Browning: It locks in flavor and color.
- Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking is the secret to tender beef.
- Layer Flavors: Tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs add depth.
- Make Ahead: The stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What to Serve with Beef Stew
Beef stew is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with sides can take your meal to the next level. Here are some serving ideas:
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
- Mashed Potatoes: Double the comfort!
- Buttered Egg Noodles: A traditional and cozy side.
- Green Salad: Balances the richness with something fresh and crisp.
- Rice or Quinoa: Great for soaking up the stew’s juices.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
Let the stew cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
This stew freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this beef stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, beef stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
2. What can I use instead of wine?
You can substitute red wine with more beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
3. How do I make it gluten-free?
Skip the flour coating on the beef and use cornstarch or gluten-free flour instead.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Try adding mushrooms, parsnips, or turnips for a twist on the classic version.
5. How can I make the stew thicker naturally?
Mash a few of the cooked potatoes in the pot, or simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
(Values vary depending on ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts on This Easy Beef Stew Recipe
This easy beef stew recipe is the kind of meal that never goes out of style — rich, hearty, and soul-warming. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, the results are always deliciously comforting.
Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy Sunday dinners, this stew will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and bring everyone to the table. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your home.
So grab your pot, prep your veggies, and let the magic simmer — you’re just a few steps away from the best easy beef stew recipe you’ll ever make!
