Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

Beef stew is one of those comforting meals that instantly brings back memories of family dinners. I remember growing up, my mom would make a big pot of stew on cold days, and the whole house would fill with the smell of tender beef, carrots, and potatoes simmering together. There’s just something about the hearty, rich flavor that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

As an adult, I wanted to recreate that feeling, and after a few tries, I came up with my own version of an old-fashioned beef stew. The recipe is simple, but it brings such deep flavors together, and it’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening. Whether it’s for a family meal or a cozy dinner, this beef stew is always a crowd-pleaser.

Servings	Total
6	2hrs 15mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I learned the basics of making beef stew from my mom, who always had a way of making things taste amazing without needing fancy ingredients. Over the years, I added my own spin, adjusting the seasonings and cooking methods until I found the right balance. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down in my family, and I’m happy to continue making it for my own loved ones.

Why Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Old-fashioned beef stew is the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth makes it filling and satisfying. It’s a meal that works for any occasion but feels especially right on a cool, rainy day. What makes this stew stand out is its simplicity – there are no complicated steps, just fresh ingredients and a slow simmer to bring everything together.

What is Old Fashioned Beef Stew Made of?

This stew is made from just a few basic ingredients, but they come together to create something truly special:

• Beef stew meat – Typically, chuck roast or brisket, cut into cubes, gives the stew its rich, beefy flavor.
• Carrots and potatoes – These vegetables add heartiness and texture to the stew.
• Onion and garlic – For a savory base and depth of flavor.
• Beef broth – The foundation of the stew’s flavorful liquid.
• Tomato paste – Adds richness and a touch of acidity.
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and sometimes a little Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.

What to Have with Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Beef stew is delicious on its own, but it pairs nicely with:

• Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the stew and soaking up all the flavorful broth.
• Side salad – A light, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stew.
• Mashed potatoes – If you want to make the meal extra comforting, serve it over mashed potatoes for a complete dish.
• Cornbread – Sweet, buttery cornbread is a great side that complements the savory stew.

Is Old Fashioned Beef Stew Healthy?

Beef stew can be a healthy meal if you use lean beef and load it up with plenty of vegetables. The broth provides a savory base, and you can control how much salt and fat you add to the recipe. The vegetables – especially potatoes, carrots, and onions – are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. To make it a bit lighter, you can use less oil when cooking the meat, or even opt for a lower-fat broth.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the stew
• Knife and cutting board for chopping the vegetables and meat
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring spoons for the seasonings

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat (chuck roast or brisket)
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

How To Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the 1 1/2 pounds of beef stew meat with salt and pepper.

Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer (working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear the meat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it develops a deep brown crust. This caramelization adds rich flavor to the stew. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its flavor.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing it well with the onions and garlic. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.

Next, pour in 4 cups of beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a spoon to deglaze—this ensures all the flavorful bits from the beef are incorporated into the stew.

Add the seared beef back into the pot, followed by 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

After the beef has simmered and started to tenderize, add the chopped potatoes and carrots to the pot. Stir well to combine. Cover and continue simmering for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.

If the stew is too thick, you can add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, remove the bay leaves and give the stew a final taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or cornbread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips

• Use lean beef – If you want to make the stew a bit leaner, opt for a leaner cut of beef like sirloin or round.
• Add extra vegetables – For a more nutritious stew, feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, celery, or peas.
• Let it simmer longer – If you have the time, letting the stew simmer for a bit longer will only improve the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. You can store it in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

3. Can I add wine to the stew?
Yes, a splash of red wine can add extra depth of flavor. Add it after browning the meat and let it cook for a few minutes before adding the broth.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned beef stew is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, with tender meat and vegetables in a rich, hearty broth. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of home in every bite!

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