Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this hearty and flavorful easy beef stew recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chunks of beef, colorful vegetables, and rich, savory broth, this dish is a classic comfort food that will satisfy the whole family. Simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, you'll fall in love with every comforting bite.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2025-11-23T09:04:46.806Z

This beef stew is a family favorite, perfect for those cold evenings when you need something warm and filling.

The Perfect Dish for Any Season

Beef stew is the quintessential dish that transitions beautifully through the seasons. In the colder months, it warms you from the inside out with its hearty ingredients and rich flavors. Conversely, during the warmer months, it's a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, seasonal vegetables while still indulging in the comforting essence of slow-cooked beef. Whether you're gathering for a family meal or even meal prepping for the week ahead, this stew meets all culinary cravings.

The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful medley that tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate varying dietary preferences—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the beef for a plant-based alternative. With this recipe, comfort food is just a pot away.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

For optimal flavor, choose good-quality beef chuck; it’s tougher but becomes meltingly tender with slow cooking. Don’t rush the browning process. Searing the beef enhances its flavor and adds depth to the overall dish. Patience is key here—take the time to get that beautiful crust on each cube of beef.

Another tip to elevate your stew is to deglaze the pot after browning the meat. This process involves adding a splash of wine or broth to lift those flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pot before adding the vegetables. This simple step ensures each spoonful is packed with flavor and richness.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious beef stew.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
3 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your beef stew.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot, stirring well.

Simmer

Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 2 hours.

Once finished, your beef stew should be thick and flavorful. Serve hot.

Storage and Reheating

One of the greatest advantages of beef stew is how well it stores. You can prepare it in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors only deepen over time, often making it taste even better the next day. Just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its best texture.

If you find yourself with leftovers, reheating is a simple task. Simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick lunches or dinners. Just add a splash of water or broth to avoid it becoming too thick while reheating.

Freezing Your Beef Stew

Freezing your beef stew is an excellent option for meal prep. Portion it into airtight freezer bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as described previously.

To protect against freezer burn, avoid adding potatoes prior to freezing as they can become mushy. Instead, consider adding them fresh when you reheat your stew. This small adjustment will ensure the best texture and flavor when serving it after storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the beef, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.