Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew 🍲✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a classic comfort food beef stew recipe that’s perfect for hearty dinners? This Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate dish to warm your soul. Slow cooker beef stew recipes are loved for their convenience and rich flavors, making this dish a favorite among families and home chefs alike. With tender chunks of beef, savory vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this hardy dinner is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

2. Ingredients Needed for This Beef Stew Recipe

2 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
3 large carrots, sliced
3 stalks of celery, sliced
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: potatoes, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, then transfer to your slow cooker. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables by slicing carrots and celery, and dicing the onion.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of your beef stew recipe and builds a rich base for the broth.

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add the sautéed aromatics to the slow cooker with the browned beef. Stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Pour in the beef broth, making sure the ingredients are submerged enough. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.

Optional: Add Potatoes or Mushrooms

For an even more filling dish, add chopped potatoes or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking. This adds variety and makes your comfort food beef stew even more delicious.

Final Adjustments

Once cooking is complete, taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

4. Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Stew

Use chuck roast for tender, flavorful meat that holds up well during slow cooking.
For a thicker broth, mash some of the cooked potatoes or simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.

To add a savory depth, include a splash of red wine during the cooking process.

5. Storage and Leftovers

This slow cooker beef stew recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for a quick, satisfying meal later.

6. Serving Suggestions and Variations

This hearty dinner pairs beautifully with crusty bread or dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. You can also serve it over mashed potatoes, polenta, or noodles for a comforting twist. For a fresh finish, garnish with chopped parsley or thyme.

7. Related Recipes You Might Love

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — This versatile appliance is great for preparing side dishes or reheating leftovers with ease.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Perfect for searing and sautéing your beef and vegetables.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Ideal for quick side dish prep or grilling vegetables.

9. Conclusion

This **easy old fashioned beef stew** recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender meat with hearty vegetables in a flavorful broth. Whether you’re cooking it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, this dish guarantees a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Try this recipe for your next family dinner, and enjoy the process of creating a timeless classic that everyone will love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this beef stew recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes! Use your pressure cooker to cook the beef and vegetables under high pressure for about 35-45 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on your specific model.

Can I substitute beef chuck with other cuts?

For the best flavor and tenderness, beef chuck is recommended. However, beef brisket or stew meat can be used as alternatives, but cooking times may vary.

How long does it take to prepare this beef stew?

The preparation time is approximately 15-20 minutes, and cooking in the slow cooker takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your beef broth and any added ingredients are gluten-free.

Easy Old Fashioned Beef Stew