Old-Fashioned Beef Stew – A Hearty and Comforting Classic

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew to warm you up on a chilly day. With its tender chunks of beef, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables, this stew is the definition of comfort food. Whether you’re cooking in a beef stew cast iron pot, slow cooker, or Dutch oven, this recipe will give you a rich and deeply satisfying meal every time.

Inspired by traditional recipes, including Beef Stew Joanna Gaines and Emeril Lagasse Beef Stew, this dish brings together classic flavors with a slow-cooked tenderness that makes it irresistible. If you’re looking for the best beef stew recipe, this is the one to try!

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, share essential tips, offer variations like Scottish Stew and Leftover Prime Rib Beef Stew, and answer common questions. Whether you want a quick beef stew for a busy night or a slow-simmered version for a weekend dinner, you’ll find everything you need right here.

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Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef Stew

There are so many reasons to make this steak stew recipe your go-to comfort meal:

• Deep, Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process develops incredible depth in the broth.
• Perfectly Tender Beef: Cooking low and slow ensures fall-apart, juicy meat.
• Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.
• One-Pot Wonder: Made in a beef stew cast iron pot or slow cooker for easy cleanup.

Ingredients for the Best Beef Stew

To make a truly old-fashioned beef stew, you’ll need a combination of high-quality beef, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, cubed
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ cup peas (optional, for added sweetness)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start cooking, gather the following tools:

• Beef stew cast iron pot, Dutch oven, or slow cooker
• Wooden spoon (for stirring)
• Sharp knife (for chopping ingredients)
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a cast iron pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing them for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes, stirring for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Broth

Pour in the beef broth, water, and tomato paste. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaves.

Step 4: Simmer Low and Slow

Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have blended.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch with ¼ cup cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and let it simmer for another 10 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Add Peas & Final Touches

Stir in the peas (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

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Tips for Tender and Flavorful Beef Stew

• Use the right cut of beef: Chuck roast is the best choice for a tender, flavorful stew.
• Sear the beef first: This locks in juices and adds depth to the stew.
• Simmer slowly: Low heat and a long cook time make for the best texture.
• Don’t overcook the veggies: Add delicate ingredients like peas toward the end.

Recipe Variations and Additions

• Scottish Stew: Add barley for a hearty, traditional variation.
• Leftover Prime Rib Beef Stew: Swap chuck roast for prime rib leftovers for a gourmet twist.
• Quick Beef Stew: Use pre-cut stew meat and a pressure cooker to speed things up.
• Steak Stew: Use sirloin steak instead of chuck for a more refined texture.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

For a complete meal, serve your best beef stew recipe with:

• Crusty artisan bread to soak up the rich broth.
• Mashed potatoes for a creamy contrast.
• Side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the browning step: Searing the beef first enhances the flavor.
• Cooking on high heat: Low and slow is key to tender beef.
• Adding all veggies at once: Softer veggies like peas should be added near the end.
• Not tasting before serving: Adjust salt and seasoning to your preference.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Tips:

• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

What to Pair with Old-Fashioned Beef Stew

To complement this stew, serve it with:

• Garlic bread or buttered rolls
• Rice or quinoa for a heartier meal
• Roasted vegetables for extra nutrition

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the broth.

How can I make it extra thick?

Use a flour or cornstarch slurry, or let the stew simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew is a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re making it in a beef stew cast iron pot for a rich, slow-simmered meal or opting for a quick beef stew version, this recipe will become a family favorite.

Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share and subscribe for more best beef stew recipe ideas.

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