Delicious Easy to Make Beef Stew Recipe

This guide offers a detailed, step-by-step process for making a classic beef stew.

The instructions are clear and use simple language.

You will learn how to create a rich, thick sauce using common ingredients and techniques.

What is a Beef Stew?

Beef stew is a filling dish made from beef, vegetables and a savory liquid. It starts with beef stew meat, such as chuck roast or pre-cut stew beef.

The meat is first browned in olive oil using a large Dutch oven or a cast-iron pot.

Then, a blend of vegetables—carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes—is added.

These ingredients create a natural mirepoix that forms the flavor base.

Many recipes call for deglazing the pan with red wine or beef broth to release the brown bits from the bottom.

This process, is often recommended by sources like Allrecipes.

The slow simmer allows the flavors to merge over time.

Some cooks use an Instant Pot or slow cooker to produce a freezer-friendly, tender beef stew.

A cornstarch slurry is often added at the end to thicken the sauce.

Beef stew is a versatile dish.

It can be served on its own or paired with simple sides like mashed potatoes and crusty bread.

Ingredients to Make Beef Stew

Use the bullet list below to gather all the ingredients needed for a classic beef stew.

This list includes common items found in recipes from sources like instant pot beef stew and traditional Dutch oven methods:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast or pre-cut stew beef; tender beef works best)
• 2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought; can be a base for a rich sauce)
• 1 cup red wine (optional; helps deglaze and builds a wine-based broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (adds color and a subtle tang)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced (for natural sweetness and texture)
• 2 celery stalks, sliced (key component of the mirepoix)
• 1 large onion, chopped (for a savory foundation)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (builds aroma and flavor)
• 2 potatoes, cubed (or baby potatoes; they help thicken the stew naturally)
• 1 bay leaf (remove before serving)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
• Salt and black pepper to taste (season with salt and pepper)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (use oil in a large Dutch oven for browning)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (a secret ingredient in many stew recipes)
• Optional:
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (for making a slurry)
  • 1/4 cup water (to mix with cornstarch)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for dusting the beef)
  • A pinch of garlic powder
  • A dash of balsamic vinegar (for extra flavor)

Each ingredient contributes to the deep, rich taste of the beef stew.

The beef, vegetables, and liquids combine to form a balanced, hearty dish that many find both traditional and innovative.

Directions for Making Beef Stew

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfect beef stew.

The instructions use a clear, step-by-step format:

Step 1: Gather
Collect all ingredients: beef stew meat, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce. Keep cornstarch and water ready if you plan to make a slurry.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven.
Add the beef stew meat in small batches. Sear each piece until it develops a browned, caramelized crust. This browning process locks in juices and builds flavor. If you do not have time, dust the meat with all-purpose flour to aid in browning.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

After browning, add the chopped onion and minced garlic into the pot. Stir until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This process creates a mirepoix that is essential for building the base of your stew. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot if you see any browned bits sticking to the bottom.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Mix in the diced carrots, sliced celery, and cubed potatoes. Stir gently to combine them with the seared beef. These vegetables bring natural sweetness and help thicken the stew as they break down during simmering.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper. Mix all ingredients evenly. This step creates a robust, wine-based broth that many recipes refer to as a classic beef stew flavor.

Step 6: Incorporate the Liquids
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Stir the mixture well. The liquid should almost cover the beef and vegetables. Bring the stew to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 7: Simmer the Stew
Cover the pot and let the stew simmer slowly for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally. This long, gentle simmer lets the beef become tender and allows flavors to meld. Many cooks refer to this step as the “slow cooked” method, which can also be done in a slow cooker.

Step 8: Thicken the Sauce
Prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1/4 cup cornstarch with 1/4 cup water until smooth. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering stew. Continue cooking for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. This method, using an equal parts cornstarch and water mixture, is common in recipes labeled as “thickener” or “cornstarch slurry.”

Step 9: Final Adjustments
Remove the bay leaf from the stew. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving. The flavors will continue to blend as the stew cools slightly.

Each step is designed to build the rich, layered flavors found in a well-made beef stew. The methods of searing, deglazing, and slow simmering are used in recipes by trusted sources like allrecipes members and pm reply lindsay. You may also see similar techniques in recipes by nagi or speshyl, and even in food styling blogs that focus on comfort food.

Ways to Thicken Beef Stew

A thick, hearty sauce is the hallmark of a good beef stew.

Below are several methods to thicken your stew:

• Cornstarch Slurry:
  • Mix 1/4 cup cornstarch with 1/4 cup water until smooth.
  • Slowly stir the mixture into the simmering stew.
  • Cook for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Flour Dusting:
  • Lightly coat the beef with all-purpose flour before browning.
  • The flour absorbs the juices and helps create a thick base when combined with the broth.
• Mashed Vegetables:
  • Mash a few of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot.
  • The natural starch from the potatoes adds body to the sauce.
• Simmering Reduction:
  • Remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  • Let the liquid reduce and thicken naturally.

These techniques are often mentioned in recipes like “classic beef stew” or “beef chuck recipes” on popular cooking sites. Each method helps you achieve a sauce that clings to the beef and vegetables, creating a balanced dish.

Expert Tips for Cooking Beef Stew

The following tips can help you achieve a perfect beef stew:

• Brown the beef in small batches to ensure a good crust.
• Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven to distribute heat evenly.
• Sauté the onions and garlic until soft to build a solid flavor base.
• Deglaze the pot with red wine or beef broth to capture the brown bits.
• Simmer the stew on low heat to tenderize the meat and merge flavors.
• Prepare your cornstarch slurry in advance to thicken the sauce quickly.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning gradually during cooking.
• For a freezer-friendly version, let the stew cool completely before storing.

These tips come from trusted sources such as allrecipes member insights and pm reply lindsay suggestions. They help maintain the natural flavors of the ingredients while ensuring the beef becomes tender and the sauce thickens nicely.

Things That I Can Serve with Beef Stew

Pair your beef stew with these side dishes to enhance the meal:

• Mashed Potatoes:
  Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich sauce.
• Crusty Bread:
  A slice of bread soaks up the thick, hearty broth.
• Rice:
  Plain or seasoned rice serves as a neutral base.
• Simple Green Salad:
  Fresh greens offer a crisp contrast to the warm stew.
• Steamed Vegetables:
  Light vegetables such as green beans or broccoli add texture.
• Buttered Noodles:
  Soft noodles mix well with the savory sauce.

Each side dish works to balance the rich flavors and textures of the beef stew. They are ideal for a comforting meal on a chilly day.

Topping Options for Beef Stew

Enhance the dish with a variety of toppings. Consider these ideas:

• Fresh Parsley:
  Sprinkle chopped parsley over the stew for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Chopped Onions:
  Add raw or lightly sautéed onions to give a crunchy texture.
• Sour Cream:
  A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and balance the savory taste.
• Grated Cheese:
  Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can provide a rich, savory note.
• Crumbled Bacon:
  Bacon bits offer a smoky flavor that complements the beef.
• Chopped Chives:
  Chives provide a mild onion flavor that enhances without overpowering.

These toppings are common in recipes labeled as classic or French beef stew. They offer an extra dimension of flavor and texture to the dish.

Storing and Reheating Beef Stew

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your beef stew later. Follow these steps:

1. Cooling:
   Allow the stew to cool to room temperature. Do not leave it out for more than two hours.
2. Storage Container:
   Transfer the stew to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly.
3. Refrigeration:
   Store the stew in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Freezing:
   For longer storage, place the stew in a freezer-safe container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

To Reheat:

• Stovetop: Warm the stew in a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat in a slow cooker on low until the stew warms evenly.

If the stew thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or extra beef broth and stir until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Ways to Cook Beef Stew

There are several effective methods to cook beef stew. Each method uses familiar techniques like browning, deglazing, and slow simmering:

• Slow Cooker:
  Place beef, vegetables, and liquid in a slow cooker. Set on low for 6 to 8 hours until the beef is tender. This hands-off approach is popular in many slow cooker recipes.
• Dutch Oven:
  Use a heavy Dutch oven or cast-iron pot on the stovetop or in the oven. Brown the beef in olive oil, then add vegetables and liquids. Simmer on low heat for about 2 hours. This traditional method builds rich flavor through gradual cooking.
• Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker:
  Use the pressure cooker function on your Instant Pot. This method reduces cooking time to about 45 minutes while still tenderizing the meat. It is favored by those who need a quick yet robust stew.
• Stovetop Cooking:
  Use a large pot or skillet to sear the beef and sauté the vegetables. Add the liquids and simmer on low heat for several hours, ensuring even cooking and flavor melding.

Each method offers a slightly different approach but uses the same foundational techniques.

Additional Flavor Enhancers

To boost the flavor of your beef stew, consider adding these ingredients:

• Red Wine:
  Use red wine not only for deglazing but also to add a deep, rich flavor to the broth.
• Tomato Paste:
  Tomato paste contributes color and a slight tang that enhances the overall taste.
• Balsamic Vinegar:
  A dash of balsamic vinegar can heighten the caramelization of the meat.
• Garlic Powder:
  While fresh garlic is essential, a small pinch of garlic powder can reinforce the aroma.
• Celery and Carrots:
  These vegetables add natural sweetness and are essential to the mirepoix base used in many beef stew recipes.

FAQ

What is the secret to good beef stew?
The secret is to brown the beef well and simmer it on low heat. This process develops deep flavors and tenderizes the meat.

What is the secret ingredient in a stew?
A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine often acts as the secret ingredient. These ingredients enhance the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.

What makes beef stew taste better?
Browning the beef, deglazing the pot, and using a rich mixture of fresh vegetables and herbs improve the taste. Techniques like adding a cornstarch slurry or mashed potatoes also help thicken the sauce naturally.

What is the best way to make stew beef tender?
Slow cooking, whether in a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or Instant Pot, is the best method. This low and slow technique breaks down connective tissue, resulting in soft, tender beef.

Conclusion

This guide shows you how to make a classic beef stew with rich flavors and a thick, hearty sauce.

The recipe uses simple ingredients and trusted techniques like browning, deglazing, and slow simmering.

Follow the steps to create a dish that is versatile and satisfying.

Enjoy your beef stew with your favorite sides and toppings.

Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	~350 kcal
Total Fat	~20 g
Saturated Fat	~7 g
Carbohydrates	~15 g
Protein	~25 g
Sodium	~800 mg