Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew 🥘🍖✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting and hearty beef stew, look no further! This beef stew recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a cozy comfort food. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish features tender chunks of beef simmered with aromatic vegetables and savory broth, making it a timeless classic that everyone will enjoy. Whether you prefer making it in a slow cooker or on the stove, this recipe guarantees rich flavors and a satisfying meal.

2. Ingredients for the perfect hearty beef stew

2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
4 potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional but adds depth)
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

3. Step-by-step instructions for a delicious slow cooker beef stew

Preparing the beef

Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes. This step locks in flavor and enhances the richness of the stew.

Cooking the vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.

Assembling in the slow cooker

Transfer the seared beef and sautéed vegetables into your slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Slow cooking for flavor and tenderness

Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully, creating that classic hearty beef stew.

Final touches and serving

Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side dish. For a quick fix, you can also make this on the stove by simmering gently for about 2 hours.

4. Tips for perfecting your slow cooker beef stew

Brown the beef first for extra flavor. You can see more easy dinner ideas here.
Use red wine for depth, but omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Thicken the stew by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water in the last 30 minutes if desired.

5. Storage tips for leftovers

Cool the stew completely before storing in airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot.

6. Serving suggestions for your cozy beef stew

This hearty beef stew pairs perfectly with warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls. For a touch of freshness, serve with a side salad or steamed green beans. Want to add an extra layer of flavor? Consider stirring in some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about beef stew recipe

Can I substitute beef with chicken or other meats?

Yes, you can make a similar stew with chicken thighs or even venison. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken cooks faster.

Is this a healthy beef stew?

Absolutely! Using lean beef and plenty of vegetables makes for a nutritious, balanced meal. For those watching calories, you can reduce the amount of oil or skip the red wine.

How long does it take to prepare this beef stew?

The preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, with 8 hours of slow cooking. Overall, it’s a simple recipe that requires minimal hands-on time.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quick reheats or roasting side vegetables alongside your stew.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ideal for searing the beef and sautéing vegetables with ease.
Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker — Make this hearty beef stew effortlessly with a reliable slow cooker.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker — Perfect to brew a fresh cup of coffee to enjoy alongside your cozy meal.

9. Conclusion

This beef stew recipe is the ultimate comfort food that warms both the body and soul. Its rich flavors, tender beef, and hearty vegetables make it a family favorite for weekend dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a classic dish that rivals any restaurant. Enjoy the process, and let this cozy beef stew become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew