Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew

The Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew has been a comforting staple in our family for generations. I still remember the aroma wafting through our home every Sunday afternoon, as my grandmother would prepare her famous stew. It was a ritual that brought us together, and each spoonful was filled with warmth and love. On chilly winter days, nothing beats curling up with a bowl of this hearty stew, filled to the brim with tender beef and vibrant veggies. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory that embraces you like a warm hug.

As I ventured into my own kitchen, I found joy in recreating that beloved recipe, adding my little twists while keeping the essence intact. The beauty of Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew lies in its simplicity. It’s about using quality ingredients and allowing them to shine through the slow cooking process. Each bite is a taste of nostalgia, a connection to family traditions and the comfort of home. It’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of steaming goodness.

The secret to this stew is not just in the ingredients but in the love and time spent cooking it. The longer it simmers, the more flavors meld together, creating a depth that makes every spoonful unforgettable. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this stew is sure to impress. So, grab your pot and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew.

What You Need for Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating a comforting Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew. Each component plays a vital role in developing the rich flavors and hearty texture of the dish. Let’s take a look at the key players that make this stew so special.

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – This creamy base adds richness to the stew and helps sauté the ingredients perfectly.
• 1 pound beef stew meat, diced into 1/2-inch chunks – A mixture of chuck roast and round roast works well; these cuts provide tenderness and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Coating the beef with flour helps to thicken the stew as it cooks.
• 1 medium red onion, sliced into thin strips – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
• 3 to 5 garlic cloves, finely minced – Provides aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 cup reduced sodium beef broth, plus more if desired – The liquid base that brings all the ingredients together.
• ¼ cup tomato sauce – Adds acidity and richness to the broth.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Concentrated flavor that thickens the stew.
• 3 celery stalks, chopped coarsely into 1/2-inch chunks – Contributes a fresh crunch and additional flavor.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped coarsely into 1/2-inch chunks – Brings sweetness and color to the stew.
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped coarsely into 1/2-inch chunks – A hearty ingredient that provides substance and texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste – Essential for enhancing flavors.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste – Adds a warm spice to the dish.

Directions for Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Cooking Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a straightforward process that allows the ingredients to shine. Follow these steps for a delicious, comforting meal that will warm your heart.

1. In a large bowl, combine the beef stew meat and flour. Stir and toss to ensure the beef is evenly coated. This step is crucial as the flour helps thicken the stew during cooking.
2. Heat the unsalted butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Swirl the pan or stir it to ensure the butter melts completely and coats the bottom of the pot.
3. Once the butter is melted, add the coated beef chunks to the pot. Sear the meat for about 5 minutes, flipping it intermittently to ensure even browning on all sides. After searing, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
4. Add the red onion to the Dutch oven and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions start to soften and turn translucent.
5. Next, add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute, just until it’s fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
6. Deglaze the pot by pouring in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds incredible flavor to your stew.
7. Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, mixing well to combine everything.
8. Return the seared beef to the pot, along with the celery, carrots, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. This long, slow cooking time helps develop rich flavors and tender meat.
10. After the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the stew is too thick, you can add more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Substitutions and Tips

Whether you’re making this Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, here are some helpful tips to ensure success.

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the stew.
• Ingredient Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cooking Methods: While this recipe is designed for the stovetop, you can adapt it for slow cookers or Instant Pots for convenience.

Great Combinations for Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew

When it comes to serving Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew, the possibilities are endless. Here are some wonderful combinations that elevate this comforting dish:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra filling meal.
• Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad can balance the heartiness of the stew.
• Wine Pairing: While I recommend non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider can be a delightful complement.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Consider pairing with seasonal veggies for variety, like roasted Brussels sprouts in the winter.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This stew is excellent for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled or tripled.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe for your next family gathering or cozy night in. You won’t be disappointed!

Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth for a satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly days, this easy weeknight dinner will warm your soul and keep you coming back for more!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 pound beef stew meat
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 medium red onion
• 3 to 5 cloves garlic
• 1 cup reduced sodium beef broth
• ¼ cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 stalks celery
• 2 medium carrots
• 2 medium potatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, combine the beef stew meat and flour. Stir and toss to ensure the beef is evenly coated. This step is crucial as the flour helps thicken the stew during cooking.
• Heat the unsalted butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Swirl the pan or stir it to ensure the butter melts completely and coats the bottom of the pot.
• Once the butter is melted, add the coated beef chunks to the pot. Sear the meat for about 5 minutes, flipping it intermittently to ensure even browning on all sides. After searing, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
• Add the red onion to the Dutch oven and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions start to soften and turn translucent.
• Next, add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute, just until it's fragrant. Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
• Deglaze the pot by pouring in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds incredible flavor to your stew.
• Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, mixing well to combine everything.
• Return the seared beef to the pot, along with the celery, carrots, potatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. This long, slow cooking time helps develop rich flavors and tender meat.
• After the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the stew is too thick, you can add more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Notes

• Meat: I use stew meat or Chuck roast, but round roast also works well. Chuck roast has a good amount of fat content and the internal marbling results in incredibly moist and tender beef every time. Plus, it’s one of the more affordable cuts of beef.
• Potatoes: I use Russet potatoes which are starchy and break down as the stew simmers and they thicken the stew. Waxy potatoes such as Yukon gold or red potatoes will stay more intact and may be substituted if you prefer their texture and flavor.

Keyword Beef Stew Recipe, comfort food, Hearty Dinner, Winter Recipes

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!