When the temperatures drop and you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal, nothing beats a bowl of homemade beef stew. This Classic Hearty Beef Stew is loaded with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth—the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew is slow-simmered to perfection, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew
Rich & Flavorful – Slow cooking creates deep, delicious flavors.
Tender, Juicy Beef – The meat melts in your mouth after simmering.
Hearty & Satisfying – Packed with vegetables and protein.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients for Classic Beef Stew
- Beef chuck roast – The best cut for stew, becoming ultra-tender when slow-cooked.
- Carrots & potatoes – Add heartiness and soak up the delicious broth.
- Onions & garlic – Essential for building a deep, savory base.
- Beef broth & tomato paste – Create a rich and robust sauce.
- Flour & butter – Help thicken the stew to the perfect consistency.
- Herbs & seasonings – A mix of thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves gives it that classic stew taste.
How to Make Classic Hearty Beef Stew
1. Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in batches until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor! Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add butter, onions, and garlic. Cook until fragrant, scraping up the browned bits for extra depth.
3. Build the Broth
Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze the pot with extra beef broth. Let it simmer for a minute before adding beef broth, bay leaves, and herbs.
4. Slow Simmer to Perfection
Return the beef to the pot, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender. This slow cooking method makes the meat melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
5. Add the Veggies
Toss in carrots and potatoes, then continue cooking for another 30 minutes until they’re fork-tender.
6. Thicken & Serve
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix flour with a bit of water to create a slurry and stir it in. Let the stew cook a few more minutes until thickened. Remove bay leaves and serve hot!
Pro Tips for the Best Beef Stew
✔ Use the right cut of beef – Chuck roast is the best because it becomes tender with slow cooking.
✔ Sear the meat well – Browning adds a deep, rich flavor to the stew.
✔ Don’t rush the cooking – The longer it simmers, the better it tastes.
✔ Let it sit overnight – The flavors meld beautifully when reheated the next day.
✔ Customize it! – Add mushrooms, parsnips, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
What to Serve with Beef Stew
Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the hearty stew.
Mashed Potatoes – If you love extra comfort, serve the stew over mashed potatoes!
Final Thoughts
This Classic Hearty Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food—simple, flavorful, and filling. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a dish that never disappoints.