Stove Top Beef Stew: A Hearty Comfort Classic
As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling pot of beef stew filling the kitchen—rich, savory, and downright comforting. This Stove Top Beef Stew is the epitome of cozy, a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every hearty bite. As tender cubes of beef meld with vibrant vegetables in a savory broth, you’ll find that this stew not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your soul.
Picture this: You come home after a long day, the air crisp and cool outside. You open the door, and the tantalizing scents of garlic, herbs, and simmering beef greet you like a warm hug. The stew is thick and comforting, with the perfect balance of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of tender beef, earthy potatoes, and sweet carrots—all encased in a rich and fragrant broth that makes your mouth water.
This classic recipe is ideal for family gatherings, chilly evenings, or any time you need some comfort food in your life. Whether served as a centerpiece at Sunday dinner or a quick meal on a busy weekday, this beef stew brings everyone together. It’s perfect for sharing, and who doesn’t love a steaming bowl of goodness when the weather turns cold?
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
(Nutritional breakdown estimates are based on standard serving sizes and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.)
Why Make This Recipe
This Stove Top Beef Stew is a standout for several reasons. First and foremost, it delights the senses with its mouthwatering aroma and rich flavor profile. It’s an uncomplicated dish that requires minimal effort while offering maximum comfort. The beauty of this stew lies in its versatility; you can enjoy it at a family gathering, on a cozy rainy day, or even as a meal prep option for the week. Its hearty nature and warm flavors make it the perfect comfort food any season!
How to Make Stove Top Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes to the pot, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes more.
- Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- If you’d like a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry and stir into the stew. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, until thickened.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve
This beef stew is wonderful on its own, but for an extra touch of comfort, serve it with crusty bread, a dollop of butter, or alongside a fresh green salad. Pour a warm cup of coffee or tea alongside it for a delightful pairing that enhances the heartwarming experience.
How to Store
If you find yourself with leftovers – and you might want to save some! – allow the stew to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.
Expert Tips
- For the best flavor, sear the beef until it develops a nice crust.
- Add a splash of red wine after browning the beef for added depth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas and replace beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Ensure your broth and cornstarch are certified gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen beef? Yes! Just thaw it beforehand and brown it in the pot as you normally would.
- What can I use instead of beef broth? Chicken broth or vegetable broth works well, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
- How can I thicken my stew without cornstarch? Consider using mashed potatoes or a blended vegetable to thicken the broth naturally.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with family or friends, there’s something profoundly comforting about sharing a pot of homemade beef stew. Its rich flavors and delightful aroma will surely spark conversations and create fond memories. We invite you to try this Stove Top Beef Stew recipe and experience the warmth it brings to any occasion. And don’t forget to share your feedback or any variations you come up with—after all, food tastes even better when shared!
Print
Stove Top Beef Stew
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty beef stew filled with tender cubes of beef, earthy potatoes, and sweet carrots in a savory broth.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes to the pot, browning them on all sides (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
- If a thicker stew is desired, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry and stir into the stew. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine after browning the beef. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
