This hearty, flavorful beef stew is the perfect comfort food. With tender chunks of beef, a rich, savory broth, and perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s a dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold evening or serving it as a family favorite, this stew is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
Tender, Flavorful Beef: The beef stew meat is seasoned, floured, and seared to lock in flavor and create a beautiful base for the stew.
Rich, Thick Broth: The flour coating helps thicken the broth, giving it a luscious consistency.
Easy Customization: Add vegetables and spices to suit your preferences or keep it simple with classic flavors.
What You’ll Need for the Best Ever Beef Stew
Ingredients
2 pounds beef stew meat
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon seasoning salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins for Full Stew
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine or additional broth (optional)
3 large carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, cubed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
2 bay leaves
Kitchen Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven
Mixing bowls
Tongs or a spatula
How to Make the Best Ever Beef Stew
Prepare the Beef
In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the flour, seasoning salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. This step ensures the beef develops a nice crust when seared.
Sear the Meat
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the floured beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set aside.
Build the Base (Optional)
If adding vegetables and broth, sauté onions and garlic in the same pot until softened.
Deglaze the pot with red wine or a splash of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom—this adds incredible flavor to the stew.
Combine Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot. Add broth, wine, and your choice of vegetables, herbs, and bay leaves. Stir well.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The beef should become tender, and the broth should thicken beautifully.
Serve
Discard bay leaves before serving. Enjoy the stew with crusty bread, over mashed potatoes, or on its own.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Choose the Right Beef:
Use well-marbled beef stew meat for the best texture and flavor. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, which can become tough during cooking.
Low and Slow:
Simmering the stew gently over low heat ensures the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Thicker Broth:
For a thicker stew, mash a few potato chunks into the broth during cooking, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
Make Ahead:
Stew often tastes better the next day, as the flavors deepen over time. Make it ahead and reheat for an even richer dish.
Customize Vegetables:
Add or swap vegetables like parsnips, celery, or mushrooms to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful broth.
Over Mashed Potatoes: Turn this stew into a luxurious meal by serving it atop creamy mashed potatoes.
Alongside Salad: A light green salad provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty stew.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort in a Bowl: Warm, hearty, and satisfying, this stew is like a hug on a cold day.
Customizable: Tailor the ingredients to your family’s preferences, from vegetables to seasoning.
Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: With just a few simple steps, this stew delivers restaurant-quality results.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the beef, transfer it to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Allow the stew to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Q: Can I make this without wine?
Yes! Simply replace the wine with extra beef broth or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Conclusion
This Best Ever Beef Stew recipe is a must-have for any home cook. From the tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef to the rich, savory broth, it’s a dish that will keep you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew promises warmth, comfort, and unforgettable flavor.
Grab your ingredients, let the stew simmer, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.