Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a bowl of pure, hearty comfort food, look no further than this Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe. It’s all about tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef chunks simmered slowly with vibrant vegetables and a blend of herbs and spices that truly bring the dish to life. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, with rich beef broth thickened just right to coat every bite. This stew is the kind of classic recipe that’ll have you coming back for seconds and making it a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can come together to create such an unforgettable dish. Each ingredient plays a starring role, whether it’s the rich flavors from the beef and broth or the colorful, hearty vegetables that add texture and heartiness.

• 2 pounds beef stew meat cubed chuck roast: Perfectly marbled for tenderness and flavor after slow cooking.
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch divided: Used to season the beef and thicken the stew to a luscious finish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every element, drawing out rich flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the beef to lock in juices and develop a golden crust.
• 2 cloves minced garlic: Brings a warm aromatic background that infuses the stew deeply.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds depth and a slight sweetness to balance the richness.
• 4 cups beef broth: The hearty base, made richer by simmering with the beef and veggies.
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a subtle tang for complexity.
• 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes, cut into bite-sized chunks: Absorb the stew’s flavors while offering a comforting bite.
• 10 ounces pearl onions: Sweet, tender pops that brighten the stew.
• 4 medium carrots, sliced: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 4 medium celery ribs, sliced: Add aromatic crunch and balance.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just a hint to enhance the natural sweetness of the veggies and tomato paste.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Gives a light herbaceous note.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, slightly peppery aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings freshness and subtle earthiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a slight smoky undertone and rich color.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: A mild spicy warmth that rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
• 1/4 cup cold water: Used to dissolve cornstarch for thickening the stew.

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef

Begin by dusting the cubed chuck roast generously with half the cornstarch, along with salt and black pepper. This extra coating helps create a beautiful crust while searing and also starts the thickening process for later. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat and add the seasoned beef cubes. Allow them to brown on all sides, stirring often to prevent sticking, until they develop a rich golden color. This first step locks in the juices and sets the foundation for deep, layered flavors.

Step 2: Build Flavors with Garlic and Tomato Paste

Once your beef is beautifully seared, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Let these cook together for a minute or two until fragrant — you’ll notice the kitchen filling with a mouthwatering aroma. Tomato paste brings a slight sweetness and deep umami punch to the stew, elevating the richness of the beef.

Step 3: Deglaze and Add Vegetables

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pot, scraping up those browned bits stuck to the bottom; this is flavor gold! Then, add in the red potatoes, pearl onions, carrots, and celery. These vegetables soak up the broth’s richness and bring a wonderful heartiness. Sprinkle in the sugar and herbs—basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and allspice—to layer the stew with subtle warmth and complexity.

Step 4: Simmer Slowly for Tender Perfection

Bring everything to a rolling boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover your pot and simmer gently for 90 to 120 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking tenderizes the beef until it’s fork-tender and allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in that classic stew experience everyone loves.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew

To finish, mix the remaining cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then gradually stir it into the simmering stew. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the broth thickens to a perfect, velvety consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Now your Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe is ready to warm you up from the inside out.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe

Garnishes

To add a fresh burst of color and texture, try garnishing your stew with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of cracked black pepper. A dollop of creamy horseradish or sour cream on the side can also brighten the savory depth of the stew beautifully.

Side Dishes

While this stew is hearty on its own, pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread or a soft buttery biscuit is a match made in comfort food heaven. Mashed potatoes or simple buttered noodles also soak up the rich broth and add an extra level of satisfying comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic yet elegant touch, serve your Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe in a cast iron skillet or deep ceramic bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. Alternatively, try ladling it over creamy polenta or butternut squash puree for a modern twist that still honors traditional flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stew only gets better with time, as the flavors continue to marry overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, ensuring you cool it to room temperature first to preserve freshness.

Freezing

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Freeze in portioned airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat your stew on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce for that perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or bottom round. Just remember that tougher cuts benefit from longer simmer times to become tender.

Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe for a slow cooker by searing the beef first, then adding all ingredients to the cooker and cooking on low for 7-8 hours. This hands-off method still delivers rich, comforting results.

How can I make this stew gluten-free?

Simply substitute cornstarch for any flour-based thickener, as cornstarch itself is gluten-free. Make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as some brands include wheat ingredients.

Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in parsnips, mushrooms, peas, or green beans toward the end of cooking for added flavor, color, and nutrition.

What’s the best way to thicken the stew if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can use flour as a thickener instead; mix it with a bit of cold water to make a slurry, and stir it in during the last few minutes of simmering. Alternatively, reduce the liquid by simmering uncovered longer for a more concentrated broth.

Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe is a timeless favorite that brings warmth, comfort, and a taste of home into your kitchen. Its perfect balance of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth is simply irresistible. I truly encourage you to give it a try—it’s the kind of meal that not only fills bellies but also hearts.

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