Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe: A Hearty Classic That Never Disappoints
When it comes to ultimate comfort food, nothing beats a warm, rich bowl of beef stew. Tender chunks of beef simmered with vegetables in a flavorful broth — it’s a timeless dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers that taste better with each passing day, this Best Ever Beef Stew Recipe is a keeper.
Why This Beef Stew Stands Out
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Melt-in-your-mouth beef: Cooked low and slow until it's fall-apart tender.
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Deep, rich flavor: Thanks to browned meat, aromatic veggies, and a perfectly seasoned broth.
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One-pot wonder: Easy to make and minimal cleanup.
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Perfect for any occasion: A cold winter night, a Sunday family dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients You'll Need
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2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
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3 tablespoons flour (for dredging)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 carrots, peeled and sliced
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3 celery stalks, sliced
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3 medium potatoes, cubed
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 bay leaf
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4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
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½ cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended)
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make the Best Ever Beef Stew
Step 1: Sear the beef
Toss the beef cubes in flour, salt, and pepper. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches — don’t overcrowd the pot. This step adds tons of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the aromatics
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Build the flavor
Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and paprika. Stir to coat the onions. Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Add broth and veggies
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, bay leaf, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors are beautifully melded.
Step 5: Adjust and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Stew
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Use chuck roast: It’s the best cut for stewing due to its marbling and flavor.
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Don’t skip browning the beef: It adds a deep, rich flavor base that makes all the difference.
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Let it rest: Beef stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
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Want it thicker? Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
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Pair it with a glass of red wine for a cozy, restaurant-quality meal at home.
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Add a side salad for a bit of freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Best Ever Beef Stew recipe is proof that classic dishes never go out of style. It's hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every spoonful. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday feast, it's sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.
Warm up your kitchen — and your soul — with this unbeatable stew.
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