Tender, juicy Stove Top Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. This hearty dish combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The slow-cooked beef paired with potatoes and carrots creates a satisfying meal that warms the heart and delights the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can make this delicious stew.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of seasonings and slow cooking brings out deep, savory flavors that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s chilly outside or you just crave comfort food, this stew is always a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Stove Top Beef Stew, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, this heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking of your beef stew.
• Cutting board: A solid surface helps you chop vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife allows for quick and precise cutting of meat and vegetables.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

• 3 pounds chuck beef (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon browning sauce (optional, for color)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons roast beef base paste (like Better than Bouillon)
• 4 cups beef stock

For Flavoring

• 2/3 cup red cooking apple vinegar (merlot or any dark red apple vinegar)
• Bunch of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaf – about 2 sprigs each)

For the Sides

• 4 large carrots (roughly chopped)
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes (cut into cubes)

How to Make Stove Top Beef Stew

Step 1: Season the Beef

1. In a large bowl, combine the chuck beef with flour, Worcestershire sauce, browning sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. In a large dutch oven set over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, sear the beef on all sides for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown.
3. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

1. Add chopped celery, onions, and minced garlic to the dutch oven.
2. Sauté until soft.
3. Stir in tomato paste and roast beef base; simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Pour in beef stock and apple vinegar.
2. Add fresh herbs to the pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and cook for 2 hours.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

1. After cooking for 2 hours, add chopped potatoes and carrots.
2. Continue cooking on medium-low heat for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until tender.

Step 6: Serve

Once your beef is perfectly tender, garnish as desired and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crunchy toast for a complete meal!

How to Serve Stove Top Beef Stew

Serving your Stove Top Beef Stew can elevate this comforting dish to a new level. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Rice

• A fluffy bed of rice absorbs the savory broth, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the stew’s richness and provide a smooth texture contrast.

On Crunchy Toast

• Serving beef stew on toasted bread adds a delightful crunch, perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness and color that enhances presentation.

In a Bread Bowl

• Hollowed-out bread bowls provide an edible serving dish that adds flavor while keeping the stew warm.

How to Perfect Stove Top Beef Stew

To achieve the most flavorful and tender beef stew, follow these handy tips.

• Use high-quality beef: Choosing chuck beef ensures tenderness after slow cooking, as it becomes juicy and full of flavor.
• Brown the meat well: Searing the beef creates a rich crust that adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
• Let it simmer: Patience is key; allowing the stew to cook slowly develops robust flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak salt, pepper, or herbs during cooking to find your perfect balance of flavor.
• Add vegetables at the right time: To maintain their texture, add hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots later in the cooking process.
• Consider thickening options: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water toward the end of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Stove Top Beef Stew

Pairing side dishes with your Stove Top Beef Stew can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Crusty Bread
   Perfect for dipping into the stew, crusty bread adds texture and heartiness to your meal.

2. Green Salad
   A crisp green salad provides freshness and balances the rich flavors of the stew.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and offers a pleasant contrast in flavors.

4. Buttered Corn
   Sweet corn with a touch of butter adds brightness and complements the savory notes of the stew.

5. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli keeps its crunch while providing color and nutrition alongside your hearty stew.

6. Garlic Breadsticks
   These soft breadsticks are great for mopping up sauce and adding a delicious garlic flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking a perfect Stove Top Beef Stew requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the beef before cooking can result in bland flavors. Always season your meat well for a tasty stew.
• Overcrowding the pot: Placing too much beef in the pot at once can prevent proper browning. Cook in batches to achieve that golden crust.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables: Failing to sauté onions and garlic beforehand can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to soften them first.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too little or too long can affect the tenderness of the beef. Stick closely to the recommended times for best results.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor-quality stock can diminish the overall taste of your stew. Opt for a rich, flavorful beef stock for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stew in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stove Top Beef Stew

• Allow stew to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stove Top Beef Stew

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Stove Top Beef Stew thicker?

To thicken your stew, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then stir it into the simmering stew until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I use other meats in this Stove Top Beef Stew?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, lamb, or turkey for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cooking method.

What should I serve with Stove Top Beef Stew?

This hearty stew pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread; all great options for soaking up those delicious juices.

Can I add more vegetables to my beef stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like peas, green beans, or bell peppers according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Stove Top Beef Stew is not only comforting but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you stick closely to the recipe or add your twist, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try today!

Print

Stove Top Beef Stew

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 33 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Stove Top Beef Stew, a hearty dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This savory stew is loaded with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, simmered to perfection for deep, rich flavors that will warm your heart. With just a few simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also versatile—serving it over rice, alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for a special occasion, this beef stew is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds chuck beef (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 large carrots (roughly chopped)
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes (cut into cubes)
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

---

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chuck beef with flour and seasonings. Mix well.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until golden brown; remove and set aside.
3. Sauté celery, onion, and garlic in the same pot until softened. Stir in tomato paste and roast beef base.
4. Pour in beef stock and add fresh herbs; cover and let simmer on low heat for 2 hours.
5. Add potatoes and carrots; continue cooking for another 30 to 45 minutes until tender.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 392
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 681mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 93mg

Keywords: For added thickness, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew before serving. Feel free to swap in chicken or lamb for a different flavor profile.