There’s something so comforting about a big pot of Beef & Potato Stew simmering away on the stove, isn’t there? The rich aroma of tender beef, earthy potatoes, and fresh veggies fills my kitchen, making it feel like home. I remember the first time I made this stew; it was a chilly autumn day, and I had friends coming over. I wanted to serve something hearty that would warm our souls. This stew turned out to be a huge hit, with everyone going back for seconds! What I love most about this recipe is how forgiving it is—you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have, and it still comes out delicious. It truly embodies the essence of comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 3 carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
How to Prepare Beef & Potato Stew
Making Beef & Potato Stew is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. Follow these simple steps for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Sauté the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because it locks in all that juicy flavor. Don’t rush it—let that beef get a nice, golden crust!
Step 2: Add Vegetables
After the beef is beautifully browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. I love how the aroma fills the air; it’s like a warm hug! Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the pot.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Seasonings
Next, stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and black pepper, mixing well to combine everything. Then, pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where all those flavors start to dance together, and trust me, you’ll want to dive in already!
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Once boiling, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Give it a good stir, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the veggies are just right. This is the part where you can kick back and relax while the magic happens!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Beef & Potato Stew turns out absolutely perfect, here are my favorite tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste—everyone has their own preference, and a little extra salt or pepper can work wonders. Using fresh ingredients is key too; it really enhances the flavors, especially with the veggies. If you can, choose high-quality beef chuck—it makes a huge difference in tenderness and taste.
Also, remember that simmering is your best friend here! The longer you let the stew bubble away, the more those flavors will deepen and meld together, so don’t rush it. If you feel adventurous, try adding a splash of red wine or some herbs like rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how delicious it turns out!
Nutritional Information
This Beef & Potato Stew is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition! Each serving is estimated to contain around 350 calories, 15 grams of fat, and 25 grams of protein. You’ll also get about 30 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of fiber, making it a well-rounded meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. Enjoy this hearty dish without the guilt!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Beef & Potato Stew, I love pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread. There’s nothing quite like dipping that warm bread into the rich, savory broth! A simple side salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette also complements the stew beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some buttery mashed potatoes or even a side of roasted vegetables. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ Section
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What can I use instead of beef chuck?
If you want to switch things up, you can use a different cut of beef like brisket or even stew meat. Just make sure it has some fat for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can! Feel free to throw in some peas, green beans, or even corn. Just remember to add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months!
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Sure! If you want a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works perfectly. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different, but still delicious.
What should I do if my stew is too thick?
If you find your stew is thicker than you’d like, just add a splash of beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly days
- Comforting flavors that remind you of home
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have
- Easy to make, even for beginner cooks
- Great for meal prep—makes delicious leftovers
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional benefits of beef, you can visit Healthline for detailed information.
Lastly, for tips on how to choose the best cuts of beef for stews, consider checking out Serious Eats.
Print
Beef & Potato Stew: 5 Heartwarming Secrets to Perfection
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting beef and potato stew.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add beef cubes and brown on all sides.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add tomato paste, thyme, and black pepper.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes and carrots; reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is tender.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with crusty bread.
- This stew can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Beef & Potato Stew