Easy Homemade Beef Stew for Cozy Nights

© Original recipe by The Pantry Post ©

Easy Homemade Beef Stew for Cozy Nights 🥘🔥✨

1. Introduction

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a hearty beef stew simmering on the stove during chilly evenings. This beef stew recipe is designed to be both simple and incredibly satisfying. It offers a perfect combination of tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this homemade stew comes together with ease and delivers a warming, delicious meal every time.

2. Ingredients for the Hearty Beef Stew

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step: How to Make a Delicious Beef Stew

Prepare the Beef

Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side until golden brown. Once browned, set the beef aside.

Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, include the sliced carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine and Simmer

Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, if using. Add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Touches and Adjustments

Remove the bay leaves. Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few potato pieces directly in the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water, simmering until thickened.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Beef Stew

Store the cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to bring back the stew’s richness.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Beef Stew

This comforting beef dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. For a complete hearty meal, serve alongside a simple green salad or sautéed greens. For added flavor and texture, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top just before serving. Discover more delicious pasta recipes like the creamy spinach mushroom pasta for a delightful side.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender. For more slow cooker favorites, check out our slow cooker crack chicken soup.

Can I use other meat cuts for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute beef chuck or brisket for the stew meat. These cuts become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. For premium cookware sets that help you prepare such dishes, consider the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set.

How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add more vegetables, such as peas, green beans, or parsnips. Using leaner cuts of beef or substituting beef with plant-based protein options are also ways to boost the nutritional profile.

What is the preparation time?

The total time for preparing and cooking this hearty beef stew is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including browning and simmering intervals.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quick vegetable roasting or reheating leftovers, making cleanup easier and faster.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heating and prevents sticking, ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Versatile for grilling vegetables or reheating your comforting beef dish with a crispy touch.

8. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a warm, homemade beef stew recipe to bring comfort during chilly nights. This hearty beef stew is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to customize to your taste. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy a delicious, comforting beef dish that the whole family will love. Make a batch today and let the rich aroma fill your home — you won’t regret it!

Print