This easy beef stew is the perfect hearty and comforting dish for cold weather or when you need a satisfying meal. Full of tender beef, baby potatoes, and savory vegetables, it’s cooked in a flavorful broth that gets even better as it simmers. This quick and simple version of beef stew is sure to become a favorite for your family or guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Comforting: This beef stew is packed with tender beef, veggies, and a rich, flavorful broth.
Quick and Easy: It cooks in about 1 hour and 40 minutes, faster than traditional slow-cooked stews.
No Thickeners Needed: The potatoes naturally thicken the stew, making it velvety without the need for flour or cornstarch.
Versatile: A perfect meal for busy nights, this stew is also great for meal prep.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
2 thyme sprigs
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sear the Beef: In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, about 10 minutes per batch. Transfer beef to a plate.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, cook onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking until the paste darkens slightly.
Simmer: Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, until the beef is tender.
Add the Potatoes: Add the potatoes and cook for about 15 minutes until they are tender.
Finish: Discard the bay leaves and thyme. Add peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Different Vegetables: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans for extra flavor.
Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Use Different Cuts of Meat: Beef stew can also be made with sirloin or round roast, but beef chuck works best for tenderness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding more broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

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

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, beef stew gets better with time! You can prepare it a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

How can I thicken the stew?

If you’d like a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for longer or mash some of the potatoes in the pot.

Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I use a different type of meat?

While beef chuck is ideal for stew, you can use other cuts like round roast or sirloin, though they may not be as tender.

How do I know when the beef is tender?

The beef should be easily pierced with a fork when it’s done, and it should fall apart with little effort.

Can I add wine vinegar to the stew?

A splash of red wine vinegar can be added at the end for an extra layer of flavor, but it’s not necessary.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this stew in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can sauté the beef and vegetables in the Instant Pot, then cook everything on high pressure for 30 minutes.

What can I serve with beef stew?

Serve it with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This easy beef stew is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. It’s packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth that’s perfect for cozy nights. Quick and easy to make, this recipe will become your go-to for a satisfying and hearty meal.