Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew to warm your soul on a chilly evening. This hearty dish is packed with tender beef, sweet carrots, creamy potatoes, and a rich, savory broth that’s simmered to perfection.

I first fell in love with beef stew at my grandmother’s kitchen table, where it was always served with a side of crusty bread and endless love. Now, it’s a staple in my home, perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week. Ready to savor a timeless favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Get ready to embrace the ultimate comfort food that checks every box. Here’s why this beef stew is about to become your go-to recipe:

First, it’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies cleanup. Everything cooks together, blending the flavors beautifully and leaving you with minimal dishes.

The tender chunks of beef practically melt in your mouth, thanks to the slow-simmering process. No tough bites here—just pure, meaty perfection.

You’ll also love how budget-friendly this recipe is. Using affordable cuts of beef and seasonal vegetables, this stew is as economical as it is delicious.

Finally, it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you want to swap ingredients or add your own twist, this stew welcomes creativity while maintaining its classic appeal.

Ready to savor every spoonful? Let’s start with the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Old Fashioned Beef Stew lies in its humble, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component is carefully selected to create layers of flavor and texture.

Beef

For the best results, use chuck roast or stew meat. These cuts are marbled with fat, which breaks down during cooking to create ultra-tender bites. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin, as they can become tough when stewed.

Vegetables

Carrots, potatoes, and celery are the holy trinity of stew veggies. They hold their shape while softening perfectly in the broth. For extra sweetness, consider adding parsnips or turnips.

Broth

A combination of beef broth and red wine creates a deeply savory base. If you don’t use wine, replace it with extra broth or tomato juice for a slightly different flavor.

Herbs and Spices

Fresh thyme and bay leaves are essential for that old-fashioned flavor. Don’t forget a good pinch of black pepper and paprika to round out the seasoning.

Special Equipment

A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for this recipe, as it retains heat and cooks evenly. If you’re using a slow cooker, follow the same steps and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours.

How to Make This Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Creating this stew is a straightforward process that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Begin by patting your beef chunks dry with paper towels. This step ensures a good sear. Heat a splash of olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the beef in batches. Brown the pieces on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch, and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Stir in tomato paste to add richness, then deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine (or broth). Let it simmer for a minute before adding the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the beef to the pot.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Once the stew base is bubbling, add your carrots, potatoes, and celery. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs, then ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve with crusty bread or warm biscuits.

Storage Options

This stew is a meal prep dream! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better with time, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Freezing

To freeze, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the consistency is too thick after storing.

Variations and Substitutions

This classic recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some creative ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the beef with mushrooms and add a can of lentils or chickpeas for protein.
• Spicy Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a hint of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the stew.
• Different Proteins: Try lamb or pork instead of beef for a unique spin.
• Root Veggie Boost: Add diced sweet potatoes, rutabaga, or even squash for added sweetness.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this stew is forgiving and welcomes creativity!

Closing

With its rich flavors, tender meat, and wholesome ingredients, this Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving comfort, this dish never disappoints. So grab your Dutch oven and let’s stew up something unforgettable tonight!

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