Print

Cozy Classic Beef Stew Recipe Everyone Will Love

beef stew recipe - featured image

A rich, savory beef stew with tender meat and hearty vegetables, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or bringing family together around the dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 3 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup dry red wine (optional, substitute with additional broth)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: Start by cutting the beef into 1-inch cubes if not already done. Peel and chop the vegetables—carrots, potatoes, and celery. Mince the garlic and dice the onion.
  2. Season the beef: In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, a pinch of salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Brown the beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown each side for about 3–4 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
  4. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes.
  5. Add liquids and simmer: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  6. Add the vegetables: Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Return the browned beef to the pot. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add the peas: About 10 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas. Stir well and let them cook through.
  8. Check and serve: Remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Notes

For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes. Customize with seasonal vegetables or substitute wine with additional broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef stew, comfort food, hearty dinner, winter recipe, family meal