Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of beef stew, and this Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe hits all the right notes. I love this recipe because it’s straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and fills your kitchen with that amazing aroma that just promises cozy dinners. Whether you’re coming home on a chilly day or meal prepping for the week, this stew is a fail-safe crowd-pleaser you’ll turn to again and again.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how tender the meat got and how all those flavors from the tomato paste, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce blended beautifully with the veggies. You’ll find that the slow cooking really brings out a rich, deep taste without needing fancy ingredients. Plus, it’s so flexible, you can tweak it to suit your pantry or preferences — that’s why this Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe is just worth making anytime you crave comfort food.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe plays an important role—whether it’s building depth of flavor or contributing to that perfect stew texture. I always recommend fresh herbs if you can get them, and good quality beef chuck really makes a difference here.

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the beef and veggies.
• Coarsely Ground Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
• Gluten-free All-Purpose Flour or Whole Wheat Flour: Helps thicken the stew and create a lovely coating on the beef.
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: For browning the meat, choose oils with a higher smoke point.
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives that aromatic boost.
• Large Carrot: Adds natural sweetness and texture to the stew.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These hold their shape well and soak up flavors beautifully.
• Beef Broth: The base liquid for rich, meaty flavor (homemade or store-bought works).
• Tomato Paste: A small amount adds umami and deepens the stew’s color.
• Worcestershire Sauce: It’s a secret weapon that brings a subtle tangy, savory element.
• Bay Leaves: Infuse gentle herbal notes.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves: Garnishes and enhances the stew’s aroma and flavor.

Variations

I’m a big fan of putting my own spin on this stew, depending on what I have around or the kind of flavor profile I’m aiming for. You should definitely experiment a little to make this your own – that’s the fun of homemade cooking!

• Spicier Version: I sometimes add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a nice kick that my family loves.
• Extra Veggies: Adding chopped celery or mushrooms gives a lovely earthy dimension and extra nutrition.
• Different Meat Cuts: Using bottom round or rump roast works well if you have those on hand instead of chuck roast.
• Slow Cooker Adaptation: After browning, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for effortless comfort food.

How to Make Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Season and Flour the Beef for Maximum Flavor

This first step is all about building flavor and texture. Take your beef chuck chunks and season them generously with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides. Then sprinkle the flour over the meat and toss it to coat evenly — this helps with browning and thickens the stew later. I like doing this in a large bowl to avoid mess and make sure every piece is coated.

Step 2: Brown the Beef in Batches

Heat your oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat—using olive or avocado oil works great here. Brown the beef chunks in batches without overcrowding the pot. This step is key to developing the rich stew flavor, so don’t rush it. Aim for a nice caramelized crust on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and carrots. Stir everything occasionally and cook until they start to get a bit of color—about 2-3 minutes. This quick sauté releases those wonderful savory aromas that your kitchen will thank you for.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Liquids, and Scrape the Pan

Now add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, fresh thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot—they’re packed with flavor and will help form the stew’s base. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer and Slow Cook

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stove, then return the browned beef to the pot. Cover it with a lid and transfer the Dutch oven to a preheated 325° F oven. Let it cook low and slow for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef becomes irresistibly tender. If you want a brothier stew, adding a cup or two of water or extra broth halfway through really helps.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf and give the stew a taste test. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed — this step is where the stew truly comes alive. I always serve it warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves to bring that herbal brightness to the rich, savory dish.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

Garnishes

I almost always finish this stew with fresh thyme leaves for that pop of color and herbal lift. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or even a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving — it makes the dish feel a little special without fuss.

Side Dishes

This beef stew is hearty enough to stand on its own, but I love pairing it with crusty bread to soak up the rich broth or a simple green salad for balance. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta are also fantastic if you want extra comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I serve this stew in individual rustic bread bowls or deep white bowls garnished with a sprig of thyme and a drizzle of good olive oil. It elevates the presentation and makes the meal feel cozy and inviting — perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge, and it usually lasts 3 to 4 days perfectly. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even better the next day!

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully — I portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and it keeps well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor when reheated.

Reheating

I gently reheat the stew over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly and doesn’t scorch. If it’s too thick, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving works too, but I prefer the stovetop method for best texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something hearty, flavorful, and straightforward. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and I love sharing it with friends and family. Give it a try—you’ll appreciate how this simple recipe fills your kitchen and your belly the best way possible.

Print