How To Make Beef Stew For Dinner Easily

Making beef stew for dinner is easier than you might think! I remember the first time I tried it, my son, Jake, was just a little guy. He was so excited to help stir the pot, and the smell of the stew filled our kitchen, making it feel like home.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a one-pot wonder that warms you up from the inside out.
• You can customize it with your favorite veggies.
• It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Pure Comfort

Beef stew is pure comfort food. It’s hearty, filling, and just what you need on a chilly night. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, making it a family favorite.

What You Need

• 2 lb 2 lb beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – You can substitute with beef round if needed.
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can use vegetable oil as an alternative.
• 1 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups 4 cups beef broth – Low-sodium is a good choice.
• 3 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 2 large potatoes, diced – Feel free to use sweet potatoes for a twist.
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp 1 tsp dried thyme – Fresh thyme can be used for more flavor.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – For thickening; cornstarch can be a gluten-free substitute.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 2 hours | Total: 2 hours 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it can be made a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the beef cubes and sear them until they’re browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a great depth of flavor.
2. Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen at this point.
3. Now, stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. This will deepen the color and flavor of your stew.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens, so let it bubble away for about 1 hour.
5. After an hour, add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Stir everything together and season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another hour until the vegetables are tender.
6. Finally, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew to thicken it up. Cook for an additional 10 minutes. The stew should be rich and hearty by now, perfect for serving.

Make It Perfect

• For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine when you add the broth.
• If you want to save time, you can use pre-cut beef stew meat.
• Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Mix It Up

• Add peas or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
• Try adding a bay leaf during the simmering process for added flavor.

Perfect Partners

• Serve with mashed potatoes for a classic pairing.
• Crusty bread is great for soaking up the delicious broth.

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FAQs

Conclusion

Now you know how to make beef stew for dinner easily! This simple, tasty meal is perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy it with your family, and don’t forget to share your own stories around the dinner table.