Old Fashioned Beef Stew

Name: Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 cups beef broth; 3 medium potatoes, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 bay leaf

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew, a timeless comfort food that brings family and friends together.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:35:28.521Z

This Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe is a classic that has been passed down through generations. It's perfect for chilly evenings and brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef simmered to perfection in a rich broth
Hearty vegetables that add a burst of flavor
Comforting and filling, ideal for family gatherings

      

A Hearty Tradition

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is more than just a meal; it's a tradition that has been cherished across generations. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction during cold days. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory broth that envelops the tender beef and vegetables.

As families gather around the table to enjoy this classic stew, stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and memories are made. It’s a recipe that invites everyone to slow down, enjoy each other’s company, and relish the simple pleasures of home-cooked food.

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this stew is undoubtedly the beef chuck. Known for its rich flavor and tender texture, beef chuck becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious when simmered slowly. When selecting your beef, look for marbling, as this fat contributes to the stew's overall flavor and richness.

Alongside the beef, hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots add not only nutrition but also a variety of textures that make each bite enjoyable. The combination of these ingredients, along with aromatic garlic and onion, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Serving Suggestions

Old Fashioned Beef Stew is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience with a few simple additions. Serve it alongside a warm crusty bread or buttery rolls to soak up every drop of that luscious broth. A fresh garden salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.

For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing your stew with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of thyme before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious stew:

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups beef broth
3 medium potatoes, diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 bay leaf

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start preparing the stew!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Old Fashioned Beef Stew:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion and garlic to the pot, and sauté until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth. Bring it to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Add the potatoes and carrots, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2 hours. Stir occasionally.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!

Let the stew cool before storing any leftovers in the fridge.

Storage Tips

Leftover Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious when reheated. To reheat, simply place the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing your stew. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is delightful on its own, there are several variations to explore. For a spicier kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños. Alternatively, swapping out the potatoes for sweet potatoes can introduce a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. A touch of rosemary or a hint of paprika can add unique dimensions to the stew. Don't hesitate to adjust the vegetables according to your preferences or what's in season, such as adding peas or green beans for added color and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, or celery for additional flavor and texture.