Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic You’ll Crave
Beef stew is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings. Tender chunks of beef, rich gravy, and deep, savory flavors make this dish a timeless favorite. This recipe not only delivers mouthwatering results but is also simple to prepare with ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this beef stew will become your go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew Recipe:
Deep, Rich Flavor: Slow-cooked beef, perfectly seasoned and simmered until fork-tender.
Simple Ingredients: Easy-to-find pantry staples create a homemade masterpiece.
Ingredients and Their Roles:
2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket): Rich in marbling, these cuts become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Coats the beef, helping it sear to a golden brown and thicken the stew.
1 tablespoon seasoning salt: Adds depth and enhances the savory flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a golden sear and prevents sticking.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Balances the seasoning with a subtle heat.
4 cups beef broth: Forms the hearty, savory base of the stew.
3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed: Adds starchiness and thickens the stew naturally.
4 carrots, sliced: Sweetens the broth and adds a pop of color.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts the savory, aromatic depth.
2 bay leaves: Infuse the stew with subtle herbal notes.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a rich, umami flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the beef with earthy undertones.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjusts the flavor to your preference.
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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Best Ever Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef
In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the all-purpose flour, seasoning salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. This step ensures a rich, golden crust on the beef and thickens the stew.
Step 2: Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the floured beef in batches (avoid overcrowding) and sear until browned on all sides (about 4–5 minutes per batch).
Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom—these are packed with flavor!
Step 4: Simmer Low and Slow
Return the seared beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The long, slow cooking breaks down the beef and melds the flavors.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Finish Cooking
Stir in the potatoes and carrots. Cook for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy