Classic Beef Stew Recipe

If you are craving a warm, hearty meal that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, the Classic Beef Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender chunks of browned beef with a rich, savory broth bursting with deep flavors from red wine, aromatic vegetables, and herbs. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of textures—from the melt-in-your-mouth meat to the tender carrots and potatoes—making it an all-time family favorite that’s both satisfying and deeply nourishing. Whether it’s for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend feast, this Classic Beef Stew Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food that everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Classic Beef Stew Recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is. They all come together to create a dish layered with flavor, texture, and gorgeous color. From the perfectly seasoned beef to the fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, every ingredient plays a key role in crafting this timeless stew.

• Flour (1/4 cup): Helps to create a flavorful crust on the beef and slightly thickens the stew.
• Paprika (1 tablespoon): Adds a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the coating of the beef.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the stew.
• Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Offers a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
• Beef chuck (3 pounds): The star of the stew, chuck is perfectly marbled and becomes tender during the long cooking process.
• Olive oil (4 tablespoons, divided): Used for searing the beef and sautéing vegetables, adding richness and depth.
• White onion (1 large, chopped): Builds the aromatic base that infuses the stew with sweetness and umami.
• Green bell pepper (1, chopped): Provides a fresh crunch and slight herbal flavor; jalapenos optional if you want a spicier twist.
• Celery (1 stalk, chopped): Adds subtle earthiness and balances the sweetness of the onions and carrots.
• Garlic (5 cloves, chopped): Intensifies the savory notes and rounds out the flavor profile.
• Tomato paste (3 tablespoons): Deepens the stew with concentrated tomato sweetness and richness.
• Red wine (2 cups): (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended) Lends complexity and a robust finish to the broth, or substitute beef stock if preferred.
• Beef stock (2 cups): Forms the flavorful liquid base that gently cooks the beef and veggies.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy, umami boost that brightens the stew.
• Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A beautiful herb blend that complements the hearty beef and vegetables.
• Bay leaves (2): Infuse the stew with subtle, aromatic notes during cooking.
• Yellow potatoes (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces): Soak up the flavors and add comforting texture.
• Carrots (3 large, cut into bite-sized pieces): Bring natural sweetness and balance to the stew.

How to Make Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Coat the Beef with Seasoned Flour

Start by mixing flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This flavorful blend not only seasons the beef but also ensures it develops a gorgeous crust when seared. Lightly coat each beef chunk in this mixture for an even, delicious coating that locks in juices and enhances the stew’s depth.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks in batches, giving each side a beautiful brown color. This step is crucial—it caramelizes the meat’s surface, enhancing the stew’s rich taste. Don’t crowd the pan to allow proper browning, and add a splash of oil between batches if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Set the beef aside, and add the remaining olive oil to the pot. Toss in the onion, green bell pepper, and celery, cooking them until they start to soften and release their aromatic scents. This vegetable base builds the stew’s foundation, setting the stage for complex layers of flavor to come.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for about a minute until the tomato paste darkens slightly. This intensifies the sweetness and umami, thickening the stew and adding a lovely savory depth.

Step 5: Deglaze with Red Wine and Add Liquids

Pour in the red wine, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This technique releases a ton of flavor stuck to the pan, enriching your stew’s broth beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Beef and Seasonings

Return the browned beef and any juices back to the pot, then stir in Italian seasoning and bay leaves. Make sure the beef is fully submerged in the liquid. This step ensures every bite is infused with herbs and savory goodness.

Step 7: Simmer Slowly

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 2 hours. This long, slow braise tenderizes the beef and lets all the flavors blend into a luscious, hearty stew.

Step 8: Add Root Vegetables

Remove the lid and add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue simmering, uncovered, for another hour or until vegetables are tender and beef is fork-tender. The uncovered simmer helps thicken the stew and concentrates flavors even more.

Step 9: Let the Flavors Meld

Turn off the heat and allow the stew to cool. For the best flavor, refrigerate overnight so it can develop even richer, deeper notes. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat and serve warm—a truly rewarding dish every time.

How to Serve Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Add a fresh sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme on top before serving to bring brightness and a pop of color that complements the rich stew beautifully. A dollop of sour cream on the side also adds a lovely creamy contrast if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This hearty stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to add freshness. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles also make an excellent base for soaking up every last drop of the luscious broth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the stew in individual rustic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of artisan rolls. You can also create a stew pot pie by spooning the Classic Beef Stew into ramekins and topping them with puff pastry for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each reheated portion taste even better than the first.

Freezing

This Classic Beef Stew Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep its delicious taste and texture for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, just make sure to use medium power to prevent the meat from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

While beef chuck is ideal for stews due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, you can use other tough cuts like brisket or round. Just be aware these might need slightly different cooking times to become tender.

Is it necessary to use red wine in the stew?

Red wine adds wonderful depth and richness, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, beef stock is a great substitute. Just make sure it’s good quality to keep the stew flavorful.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop?

Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Add potatoes and carrots during the last hour to avoid overcooking.

How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?

You can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid naturally. Alternatively, stir in a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water and cook until thickened.

What’s the best way to reheat the stew without drying out the beef?

Reheat the stew slowly over low to medium heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water if needed, and stir gently to keep the meat moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Beef Stew Recipe is much more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and home-cooked goodness that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, once you try this stew, it will become a treasured recipe in your kitchen. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and dive into the heartwarming world of classic beef stew. Your taste buds will thank you!

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