Go Back
Delicious bowl of cozy hearty beef stew with vegetables and herbs

Hearty Beef Stew

A timeless dish that embodies comfort food at its finest, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef chuck roast Cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 4 medium carrots, chopped Add a touch of sweetness
  • 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced Provides a creamy texture
  • 2 medium sweet onions Brings aromatic depth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor
  • 6 cups low-sodium beef broth Base for the stew
  • 2 leaves bay leaves For flavor infusion
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme Enhances flavor
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the beef
  • to taste salt and pepper For seasoning

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cut the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes and season generously with salt and pepper.
  • In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden-brown. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add chopped sweet onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.
  • Stir in the sliced carrots and diced Yukon Gold potatoes.
  • Return seared beef to the pot, add beef broth, bay leaves, and fresh thyme. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the stew to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Adjust seasoning and remove bay leaves before serving.

Serving

  • Ladle the Hearty Beef Stew into bowls and enjoy hot, optionally accompanied by fresh bread or rice.

Notes

For richer flavor, consider using bone broth. You can add other veggies like mushrooms or green beans. To thicken, mash a few potato chunks or add a cornstarch slurry.
Keyword Beef Stew, Comfort Food, Family Recipe, Hearty, Slow Cooker