Description

Warm, comforting, and full of depth, Traditional Beef Stew is the perfect easy dinner idea for cold nights or cozy gatherings. This hearty dish features fork-tender beef, rich and velvety broth, and a medley of classic vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome family meal, healthy dinner ideas, or a freezer-friendly make-ahead meal, this stew checks every box. With minimal prep and a big reward in flavor, it’s an easy recipe that deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 large yellow onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1/2 cup red wine (optional)

4 cups beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

2 bay leaves

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 cup frozen peas

Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Pat beef dry with paper towels, season with salt and pepper, and dredge in flour.

2. Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a Dutch oven. Brown half the beef, remove, and repeat with the rest.

3. Add remaining oil and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and tomato paste, cook for 1-2 minutes.

4. Deglaze with wine, scraping brown bits. Add beef back with broth, Worcestershire, herbs, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer partially covered for 1 1/2 hours.

6. Add carrots and potatoes. Simmer uncovered for another 30-40 minutes.

7. Stir in peas and cook 5-10 minutes more. Discard bay leaves and adjust seasoning.

8. Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

Browning the beef is key for deep flavor—don’t skip it.

Add vegetables in stages to prevent them from becoming mushy.

This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Simmering / Braising
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg