Introduction

Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, Hearty Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots is a classic dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Tender chunks of beef are slow-cooked to perfection in a savory broth, allowing the flavors to meld with tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs. Each spoonful is a delicious blend of hearty ingredients and rich, comforting flavors that make this stew a timeless favorite.

This recipe celebrates classic comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or chilly evenings when you crave a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a savory broth creates a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying—a true staple for any home-cooked meal.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Hearty Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots because it perfectly embodies the comfort and warmth of a classic, home-cooked meal. The beef is tender and flavorful, while the potatoes and carrots soak up the savory broth, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Each spoonful delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that feels both indulgent and nourishing, making it a dish that comforts the soul as much as the stomach.

What makes this recipe special is its ability to turn simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful stew that feels slow-cooked and gourmet without requiring constant attention. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to family gatherings.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Hearty Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots is a must-try because it combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth into a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting. Here’s why:

1. Tender, Flavorful Beef – Slowly cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
2. Hearty Vegetables – Potatoes and carrots add texture, color, and natural sweetness.
3. Rich, Savory Broth – Full of herbs and deep flavors that enhance every bite.
4. Comforting and Nourishing – Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family meals.
5. Classic, Timeless Dish – A recipe that feels both homey and gourmet.

Trying this recipe guarantees a hearty, warming, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion and loved by all ages.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours (stovetop) or 6–8 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~420 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck roast, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute more broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 medium carrots, cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Pat beef cubes dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge lightly in flour.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
4. Sear beef in batches until browned on all sides (about 4–5 minutes per batch). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

1. Add remaining oil to the pot.
2. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

1. Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. (If skipping wine, use broth.)
2. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir well.
3. Return beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and simmer gently for 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

1. Add potatoes and carrots. Continue simmering for another 40–50 minutes until beef and vegetables are tender.
2. Stir in peas (if using) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

• Discard bay leaves, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

How to Serve

• Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or cornbread to soak up the gravy.
• For extra comfort, pair with a side salad or roasted green beans.
• A glass of red wine makes a perfect match.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Thicker Stew: Mix 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch with water and stir into stew during the last 10 minutes.
• Add More Veggies: Try parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms.
• Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4–5 hours.
• Instant Pot Version: Brown beef using sauté mode, then pressure cook everything (except peas) for 35 minutes, natural release 15 minutes.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce at the end for extra depth.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (for stovetop)
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Ladle for serving
• Slow cooker or Instant Pot (optional for alternate cooking methods)

FAQ

Q1: What’s the best beef cut for stew?
Beef chuck roast works best it becomes tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts.

Q2: Can I skip the wine?
Yes, simply replace it with more beef broth. The wine adds depth but isn’t necessary.

Q3: How do I prevent tough beef?
Low and slow cooking is key don’t rush it.

Q4: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, stew tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Q5: How do I make it gluten-free?
Skip the flour dredge and thicken with cornstarch slurry instead.

Conclusion

This Hearty Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots is the ultimate comfort dish for cold nights, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a nourishing, soul-satisfying meal. With melt-in-your-mouth beef, flavorful veggies, and a rich broth, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Easy to store, freeze, and reheat, it’s also perfect for meal prepping. Once you try this, it’s sure to become a family favorite!