Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your family and friends with this classic Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe. Tender chunks of beef simmered with hearty vegetables and aromatic herbs create a comforting dish that's perfect for chilly evenings. This timeless recipe is easy to prepare, making it a staple for busy weeknights and Sunday dinners alike. Serve with crusty bread for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-11-29T16:37:11.059Z

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is more than just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a cold day. The secret to its depth of flavor lies in the slow cooking of the beef and vegetables, allowing the ingredients to meld seamlessly.

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something special about a bowl of beef stew that warms the heart and comforts the soul. The rich, savory broth combined with tender beef and hearty vegetables creates a meal that nourishes both body and spirit. On chilly days, there's no better comfort food than this Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Whether served in a rustic bowl or elegantly plated, its inviting aroma fills the home with a sense of belonging and love.

This stew is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. It's not just about the food; it's about sharing stories and laughter around the dinner table. As the stew simmers away, it gives everyone time to connect and enjoy the anticipation of a delicious meal, making every gathering feel special.

Ingredients That Matter

The key to a flavorful Old Fashioned Beef Stew lies in the quality of the ingredients used. Choosing the best cuts of beef, like chuck, ensures a tender and juicy result after slow cooking. Fresh, seasonal vegetables add vibrant colors and vital nutrients, making the stew not only delicious but also healthy. Each ingredient works together, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

Herbs like thyme and rosemary infuse the stew with aromatic goodness, creating a fragrance that will linger in your kitchen long after the meal is served. These simple yet impactful additions elevate your stew from ordinary to extraordinary, ensuring that every spoonful is a delightful experience filled with savory depth.

Make It Your Own

One of the beautiful aspects of this stew recipe is its versatility. Feel free to tailor the ingredients to suit your taste or to use what you have on hand. For instance, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or include seasonal vegetables like peas or green beans. Add a splash of red wine for an extra layer of richness, or throw in some mushrooms for an earthy touch.

Customizing your beef stew not only makes it more enjoyable for you and your family, but it also allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Don’t hesitate to embrace this creativity—the kitchen is a place for exploration, and your unique twist on this classic dish will surely impress everyone!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for ease.

Cooking Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back into the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, carrots, and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Once completed, serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your beef stew, be sure to brown the meat thoroughly before simmering. This step caramelizes the surface of the beef, locking in juices and creating depth in your stew's flavor. Don't rush this process; take your time to get it just right for maximum taste.

Additionally, allow the stew to simmer gently. Cooking it low and slow permits the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this can disrupt the cooking process and affect your stew’s final result. Let it do its magic undisturbed!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Old Fashioned Beef Stew, accompany it with crusty bread or warm biscuits. The bread is perfect for sopping up the hearty broth and adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender meat and vegetables. You could even consider offering a simple side salad to lighten the meal and enhance the flavors.

For a complete culinary experience, consider pairing your beef stew with a well-rounded red wine. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot complements the rich flavors beautifully, making for a satisfying dining experience that’s perfect for cozy evenings at home.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Old Fashioned Beef Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store any unused stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the stew appears too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore its original creamy consistency. Enjoying reheated stew is like receiving a warm hug from your kitchen on a busy day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round if you prefer.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can use cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the stew if desired.