How to Make a Hearty Beef Stew with Potatoes: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
There’s nothing better than a bowl of hearty beef stew on a chilly day to warm you up inside and out. Beef stew with potatoes is one of those meals that feels like home—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The good news? You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to make it. In this blog, we’ll show you how to create a delicious beef stew with potatoes that comes together with ease. Grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
The Magic of Beef Stew
Beef stew is a timeless comfort food that’s been around for generations. It’s a one-pot dish made by simmering chunks of beef and vegetables in a flavorful broth, creating a hearty and wholesome meal. The key to a great beef stew? Time. Slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and juicy while all the flavors blend beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a beef stew with potatoes, you’ll need everyday ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
Meat:
- 1¼ to 1½ pounds of beef stew meat (or chuck roast cut into cubes)
Vegetables:
- 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
Pantry Staples:
- 3 cups beef broth (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Extras:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup frozen peas (add at the end if you want extra veggies)
Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need any fancy equipment to make beef stew. Here’s what you’ll need:
– A large pot or Dutch oven
– A cutting board and knife
– A wooden spoon
– Measuring spoons and cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Start by cutting your beef into bite-sized pieces if it’s not already pre-cut. Pat the beef dry with paper towels—this helps it brown better. Sprinkle the meat with salt and pepper to season. Then, toss the cubes in the flour until evenly coated. Flour helps the beef form a nice crust when browning, and it also thickens the stew later.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot) and brown it on all sides. This step adds rich flavor to the stew. Remove the beef and set it aside once it’s browned.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent. If there are brown bits stuck on the bottom of the pot from the beef, scrape them up with a spoon—those bits are packed with flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. Let everything cook together for about 1 minute. This step helps deepen the flavor and gives the stew a rich base.
Step 5: Add the Liquid
Pour in the beef broth and stir well to combine. This will deglaze the pot, lifting any remaining browned bits off the bottom. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the stew to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Simmer Slowly
Once the stew comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low so it simmers gently. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 1 to 1½ hours. Stir occasionally to keep anything from sticking. During this time, the beef will become tender and the flavors will meld together.
Step 7: Add the Potatoes
After 1 to 1½ hours, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Cover again and let the stew simmer for another 30 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 8: Final Touches
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. If you’re adding frozen peas, stir them in and let them cook for about 5 minutes until heated through. For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped parsley on top if you like.
Serving Your Beef Stew
Once your beef stew is ready, serve it hot in bowls. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or even a side of buttered rice for a more filling meal. This dish is great to pack for lunch or share with family and friends. And the best part? It tastes even better the next day, so leftovers are a win!
Tips for Success
- Use the Right Cut of Beef: Tougher cuts like chuck roast are perfect for stew because they get tender when cooked slowly.
- Don’t Rush: Great stew takes time. Be patient while it simmers!
- Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms.
Wrapping It Up
Making beef stew with potatoes doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or serving family, this classic dish will always hit the spot. Give it a try—you’ll love it!
