Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe

Name: Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Beef Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Easy Beef Stew recipe, perfect for chilly evenings. Tender beef chunks are simmered with vibrant veggies and aromatic herbs in a rich broth that warms the soul. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-14T05:10:03.070Z

The Joy of Home Cooking

There’s something truly special about cooking at home. The aroma of simmering stew fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Home cooking not only brings comfort but also allows you to share love and care through your meals. This Easy Beef Stew recipe exemplifies the heart of home cooking, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings and chilly evenings alike.

Creating dishes from scratch can also be incredibly satisfying. Each chop of the vegetables and every stir of the pot brings you closer to a rewarding culinary experience. Knowing that the meal you serve is made with fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation elevates the dining experience for you and your loved ones.

The Benefits of Cooking with Beef

Beef is not only a delicious protein source but also packed with essential nutrients. It is a great source of iron, which is crucial for maintaining healthy energy levels and supporting overall health. Incorporating beef into your meals, like this stew, helps provide your body with vital nutrients needed for an active lifestyle.

Moreover, using quality cuts of beef, such as chuck, in slow-cooked recipes promotes tenderness and flavor. The marbling and connective tissues in chuck roast break down during the lengthy cooking process, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture every time. This ensures your beef stew is not just easy to make but also deeply satisfying.

Pairing Your Beef Stew

When it comes to serving beef stew, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to the next level. Crusty bread is, without a doubt, a classic pairing. A slice or two can help mop up the rich, savory broth, making each bite an experience to savor. For an added touch, consider buttering the bread before serving for an indulgent treat.

Additionally, a simple side salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stew. A mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will offer a crispy texture and vibrant flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whatever your choice, these pairings complement the heartiness of beef stew beautifully.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
2 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before starting.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.

Add Veggies and Herbs

Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the onions are translucent. Add the tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Stew

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and serve the stew hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your hearty beef stew!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover beef stew can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights. After the meal, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, your beef stew can last for up to three days, retaining its rich flavors and tender texture.

If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing the stew. Pour individual servings into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Your stew can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop for a quick and hearty meal.

Variations to Try

While this Easy Beef Stew recipe is delicious as-is, don’t hesitate to mix things up! Consider adding your favorite vegetables such as green beans, peas, or mushrooms for added depth of flavor and nutrition. Experimenting with spices like smoked paprika or cumin can introduce new taste dimensions to the dish.

For a different twist, try making it a Guinness beef stew by adding a cup of stout beer to the broth. This addition will enrich the stew’s flavor profile and give it a unique richness. Let your creativity shine and make the recipe your own with these simple tweaks!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats?

Yes, pork or chicken can also work, but adjust the cooking times accordingly.

→ How can I make it thicker?

You can add a cornstarch slurry or a bit of flour to the stew before serving.