Looking for the perfect comfort food that warms both the body and the soul? This Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe is exactly what you need! Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this traditional beef stew offers the richness of slow-cooked beef combined with tender vegetables and a flavorful broth that will leave everyone wanting seconds. Read through the entire recipe for detailed cooking instructions, helpful tips, and ways to make it your own.
What is Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Old fashioned beef stew is a time-honored recipe that features chunks of tender beef simmered in a rich broth alongside carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions. This hearty dish is slow-cooked to allow all the flavors to meld together, creating a comforting, robust meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s a dish that has been passed down through generations and continues to be a favorite for its simplicity and unbeatable taste.
Ingredients List for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
To make a flavorful and authentic old fashioned beef stew, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredients List for Beef Stew Variations:
Want to make your beef stew even more special or adjust it to suit your dietary needs? Here are some ingredient variations you can try:
- Meat alternatives: Swap out beef for lamb, pork, or even chicken thighs for a lighter version.
- Vegetable add-ins: Consider adding mushrooms, parsnips, peas, or green beans for extra texture and flavor.
- Herb variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even dill can add a different aroma to your stew.
- Broth options: Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter taste or add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
- Grains and legumes: For a heartier meal, try adding pearl barley or lentils to the mix.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is easily adaptable to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Below are some substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Meat Substitute: If you don’t have beef chuck on hand, you can use brisket, stew meat, or even ground beef. Each cut of beef will bring a slightly different texture, but the overall flavor will remain hearty.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Skip the beef and use mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Replace beef broth with vegetable stock and leave out the wine, or substitute it with a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
- Gluten-Free: To thicken the stew without flour, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative.
- Alcohol-Free: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with an additional cup of beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bit of tang.
- Low Carb/Keto: Skip the potatoes and use turnips or cauliflower as a low-carb alternative. Both will maintain the stew’s hearty texture without adding too many carbs.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This old-fashioned beef stew is a straightforward recipe that involves a little bit of prep and some time for slow simmering. Follow these easy steps for a rich and comforting beef stew that’s full of flavor.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring each piece gets a nice sear. This step is crucial for building the deep, hearty flavor of the stew. Once the beef is browned on all sides, transfer it to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add in the chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook the vegetables for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to begin softening and absorbing some of the flavors from the browned beef bits left in the pot.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Once the vegetables are slightly softened, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, followed by the beef broth and red wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this is called deglazing and adds a ton of flavor. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, then return the browned beef cubes to the pot.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and for all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew
To thicken the stew, you can use 2 tablespoons of flour mixed with a little bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let the stew continue to simmer uncovered for a thicker, richer consistency. If you prefer a thinner broth, you can skip this step.
How to Cook Old Fashioned Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Brown the beef for added flavor.
- Sauté the onions and garlic.
- Cook the vegetables slightly before adding the broth.
- Add in the liquid ingredients and beef, bringing it to a boil.
- Slow simmer for 2 hours.
- Thicken with a slurry if needed.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the browning step: Browning the beef is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the stew. Don’t skip it!
- Not cooking long enough: Beef stew needs time for the meat to become tender and for the flavors to meld. Make sure to simmer it for at least 2 hours.
- Adding too much liquid: The stew should be thick and hearty, not soupy. Stick to the recipe’s liquid measurements and adjust only as necessary.
- Over-seasoning too early: It’s easy to add more salt later, but hard to take it away. Season gradually and adjust after cooking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Old fashioned beef stew is a rustic, comforting dish, so there’s no need to overcomplicate the presentation. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:
- Serve in individual bowls: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.
- Bread accompaniment: Serve the stew with warm, crusty bread for dipping. Garlic bread or a classic French baguette works great.
- Garnishes: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions to each bowl for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew
This stew pairs beautifully with:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Steamed green beans or a side salad for added freshness
Presentation Ideas for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
For a beautiful presentation, serve the stew in a large, rustic pot right on the table with a ladle. This family-style serving approach makes the meal feel cozy and inviting. Alternatively, you can serve the stew in individual bowls with a side of fresh herbs and crusty bread for an elegant but still homey feel.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe Tips
- Pat the beef dry before browning to get a better sear.
- Use fresh herbs if possible for a brighter, more aromatic flavor.
- Make it ahead of time: Beef stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
- Freeze leftovers: This stew freezes well, so you can make a large batch and save some for a quick meal later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Follow the same initial steps of browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Can I freeze beef stew?
Absolutely. Beef stew freezes very well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat beef stew?
Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the stew is too thick, add a little broth or water to thin it out.
What’s the best cut of beef for stew?
Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Other good options include brisket and short ribs.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of old fashioned beef stew on a cold night. This classic recipe is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare with a few basic ingredients. With step-by-step instructions, substitution ideas, and helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to make extra—you’ll definitely want leftovers!
PrintOld Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe features tender beef chunks simmered with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a savory broth. A timeless classic, perfect for chilly nights, it's easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Ideal for a hearty family meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot, then brown the beef stew meat.
- Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in flour and tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth, bring to a boil, and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add potatoes and carrots, cook for another 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute beef with lamb for a different flavor.
- Add frozen peas or green beans in the last 10 minutes for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 760mg
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