There’s nothing quite like a pot of homemade beef stew simmering away on the stove-it’s the kind of meal that instantly makes the house feel warm and inviting. This classic beef stew is hearty, savory, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Slow-cooked until the beef is tender and the vegetables are perfectly soft, it’s a cozy dinner that’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving real comfort food.
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Recipe overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes stovetop or 2 hours 40 minutes in the oven
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (stovetop)- 2 hours 55 minutes (oven)
What You’ll Need
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2.4lb chuck beef , cut into 1.5″ cubes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 tsp minced garlic
- 3 carrots cut into 1″ pieces
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1.5 cups dry red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti or Merlot are great choices)
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 1/2 tsp thyme
- 14 oz baby potatoes, halved
Instructions
- Add beef to a mixing bowl with salt and pepper, toss to coat
- Heat 4 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over med-high heat
- Add some of the beef without over crowding, brown aggressively on all sides– about 4 minutes. Remove to bowl, repeat with remaining beef.
- Turn down heat to medium-high. Add more oil if needed use 1 tbsp. Add onion and garlic, cook for 3-4 minutes or until onion is softened slightly and golden on the edge.
- Add carrot and celery, stir for 1 minute
- Sprinkle flour evenly across surface, then stir to coat.
- Slowly add broth and red wine while stirring to avoid lumps from the flour.
- Add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until fully incorporated
- Add cooked beef (including any juices), thyme, bay leaves and potatoes. Stir.
💡 Liquid level should almost fully cover everything, if not, add just a touch of water or broth. - Bring to simmer, then adjust heat to low-medium low so it’s simmering gently.
- Cover and cook for 1 hour 45 minutes (stovetop) or 2.5 hours in the oven at 300 degrees until beef is pretty tender check meet tenderness at 1.5 hours.
💡Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Serve over Homemade Mashed Potatoes
- Serve in a crispy bread bowl
- Serve with cornbread
📌Save this pin for your next comfort food craving
Final Thoughts
This farmhouse-style beef stew is one of those comforting classics that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, cozy, and even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, warm biscuits, or your favorite cornbread for a comforting meal. Whether you’re gathered around the table with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this beef stew brings simple ingredients together in the most comforting way. If you are looking for more cozy comfort meal ideas check out my easy Cottage Pie Recipe -Hey Ivy