Beef stew with carrots and potatoes recipe featuring tender beef, onions, garlic, broth, and herbs. A hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners!
Ingredients
You will need following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Chuck Roast | 2 lbs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes | Best cut for a tender beef stew. Swap with brisket or stew meat for variety. |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For browning beef chunks — adds deep flavor. |
| Onion | 1 large, diced | Yellow or white onion works. Adds sweetness to this homemade beef stew. |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Builds rich flavor — key for any easy beef stew recipe. |
| Carrots | 3–4 medium, chopped | Classic veggie in beef and vegetable stew; parsnips make a nice swap. |
| Potatoes | 3 medium, diced | Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold shape perfectly. |
| Beef Broth | 4 cups | Use low-sodium for control. Adds depth to the gravy. |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tbsp | Rich umami base; enhances the beef stew with carrots and potatoes recipe. |
| Worcestershire | 1 tbsp | Boosts savory flavor and aroma. |
| Herbs & Seasoning | To taste | Thyme, bay leaf, rosemary, salt, pepper — for a classic, aromatic stew. |
| Flour/Cornstarch | 2 tbsp | To thicken beef stew or use cornstarch for a gluten-free option. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season & Brown the Beef:
Pat the beef chuck roast dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear in olive oil in a Dutch oven until golden brown for rich flavor.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant, then mix in tomato paste to create a deep base for this homemade beef stew.
3. Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in beef broth or red wine, scraping up browned bits to boost flavor.
4. Slow Simmer:
Return beef, add remaining broth, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and bay leaf. Cover and cook until the tender beef stew develops rich flavor.
5. Add Carrots & Potatoes:
Stir in carrots and potatoes halfway through to keep vegetables from getting mushy.
6. Thicken & Finish:
Use a flour or cornstarch slurry to thicken if needed. Garnish with parsley and serve with crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Flavor & Texture
- Brown in Batches: Sear beef in small portions to create a deep, caramelized crust for a flavorful homemade beef stew.
- Use the Right Cut: Choose beef chuck roast for the most tender and juicy meat after slow cooking.
- Simmer Low & Slow: Gentle heat breaks down connective tissue, making the beef melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Add Veggies Later: Add carrots and potatoes halfway through cooking to keep them from becoming mushy.
- Taste & Adjust: Check seasoning before serving; add herbs or a splash of vinegar to brighten the stew gravy.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stew sit 5–10 minutes for the flavors to combine.
Nutrition Snapshot
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~380 kcal – perfect for a hearty, balanced meal. |
| Protein | 32 g – supports muscle growth and keeps you full. |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g – steady energy from carrots and potatoes. |
| Fat | 14 g – includes healthy fats for rich flavor. |
| Fiber | 4 g – promotes healthy digestion. |
| Sodium | ~780 mg – reduce with low-sodium broth if preferred. |
Serving Ideas
1. Classic with Crusty Bread
Pair this beef stew with carrots and potatoes recipe with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful gravy.
2. Over Mashed Potatoes
Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
3. With Rice or Noodles
Enjoy this beef and vegetable stew with white rice or buttered egg noodles for a filling meal.
4. Light Salad
Add a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance flavors.
5. Family-Style
Serve in a Dutch oven topped with fresh parsley for a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
| Step | Tips |
|---|---|
| Storage | Refrigerate beef stew with carrots and potatoes recipe in airtight containers for 3–4 days, keeping it with gravy for moisture. |
| Freezing | Freeze beef stew in labeled freezer bags for up to 3 months. |
| Reheating | Warm gently on stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed. |
| Microwave | Heat in short intervals, stirring halfway for even warmth. |
FAQs
Q1: Can I use stew meat instead of chuck roast?
Yes, but beef chuck roast gives the most tender and juicy chunks, making this beef stew with carrots and potatoes recipe extra flavorful.
Q2: When should I add carrots and potatoes?
Add carrots and potatoes halfway through cooking to keep them firm and avoid a mushy texture.
Q3: Can I freeze and reheat beef stew?
Yes! Freeze beef stew in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, then reheat slowly with a splash of beef broth for perfect consistency.
