Classic Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots

Classic Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, rich, and deeply satisfying. This timeless dish features tender chunks of beef slowly simmered in a savory broth with earthy potatoes, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs. Rooted in traditional home-style cooking, beef stew has been a staple across many cultures because it transforms simple ingredients into a warming, nourishing meal.

What makes this stew special is the slow cooking process, which allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while the vegetables absorb the flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners, this classic beef stew is a meal that brings comfort and familiarity with every spoonful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s wholesome, filling, and incredibly comforting. The flavors deepen as it cooks, and it tastes even better the next day. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with a warm aroma and brings everyone to the table.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s reliable, nourishing, and timeless. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers rich flavor and hearty satisfaction. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home cook, this classic stew never disappoints.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / European-Inspired
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

Cooking Directions

Brown the Beef
Season, flour, and brown beef for deep flavor.

Build the Stew Base
Sauté aromatics, add broth and seasonings.

Simmer with Vegetables
Slow-cook until beef and vegetables are tender.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then toss with flour.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Brown beef in batches until well-seared; remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pot, sauté onions until softened.
Step 5: Add garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute.
Step 6: Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Add Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, and browned beef.
Step 8: Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 1 hour.
Step 9: Add potatoes, carrots, and celery.
Step 10: Simmer for another 40–45 minutes until everything is tender.
Step 11: Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning before serving.

How to Serve

Serve classic beef stew hot in deep bowls. Pair with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or mashed potatoes. A simple green salad or steamed greens make a great side.

Recipe Tips

• Use chuck beef for best tenderness
• Brown beef in batches to avoid steaming
• Simmer gently for rich flavor
• Let stew rest before serving for thicker consistency

Variations

Red Wine Beef Stew
Replace 1 cup of broth with red wine.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Cook on low for 7–8 hours.

Hearty Vegetable Beef Stew
Add peas, mushrooms, or parsnips.

Spicy Beef Stew
Add paprika or chili flakes.

Gluten-Free Beef Stew
Skip flour or use cornstarch slurry.

Freezing and Storage

Storage
Refrigerate stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing
Freeze stew for up to 3 months.

Reheating
Reheat on stovetop or microwave until hot.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Conclusion

Classic Beef Stew with Potatoes and Carrots is a timeless, comforting dish that never goes out of style. Rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful, it’s perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or meal prep. With tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and savory broth, this stew is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.