Beef and Potato Stew Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a comforting, soul-satisfying dish that warms you up from the inside out, look no further than this Beef and Potato Stew. Packed with tender cubes of beef, velvety potatoes, sweet carrots, and a broth infused with cozy spices, this stew is like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a weekend family dinner, the Beef and Potato Stew will quickly become your go-to recipe for simplicity, heartiness, and a burst of homestyle flavors that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each bringing its unique character to the stew. Fresh vegetables provide texture and natural sweetness, while the beef adds robust flavor and satisfying tenderness. The spices and broth pull it all together into a beautifully balanced dish.

• 600 g beef cubes: Choose well-marbled beef for the best tenderness after slow cooking.
• 2 tbsp flour: Helps create a lovely crust on the beef and thickens the stew as it simmers.
• 2 tbsp oil: For browning the beef and sautéing the onions; a neutral oil works best.
• 2 onions, chopped: These add a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 3 carrots, sliced: They contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.
• 3 potatoes, chopped: Creamy and hearty, potatoes soak up the flavors beautifully.
• 3 cups beef broth: The rich base that brings everything together with savory goodness.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle herbal notes during the slow simmering process.
• 1 tsp paprika: Infuses warmth and a delicate smoky flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.

How to Make Beef and Potato Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by coating the beef cubes lightly in flour. This not only helps the meat get a beautiful golden crust but also thickens the stew later on. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the floured beef cubes in batches. Brown them evenly on all sides until a rich crust forms—this step locks in the juices and builds a deep, savory foundation for your stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Once all the beef has been browned and set aside, use the same pot to add chopped onions. Cooking them in the beef-infused oil until they soften and turn translucent brings out their natural sweetness. This layer of flavor is crucial and sets the stage for all the other ingredients to shine.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Spices

Add the chopped potatoes and sliced carrots directly to the pot with the onions. Sprinkle in the paprika along with salt and pepper, stirring to coat everything evenly. Don’t forget the bay leaf, which will slowly release aromatic herbal flavors during cooking. This combination creates a symphony of tastes, elevating the humble ingredients into something special.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, then return the browned beef to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to mingle beautifully. The stew will thicken slightly as the flour works its magic, resulting in a luscious and hearty texture.

How to Serve Beef and Potato Stew

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few finely chopped chives on top gives the Beef and Potato Stew a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbaceous brightness. If you love a little richness, a dollop of sour cream or a splash of tangy Greek yogurt adds creamy contrast that pairs perfectly with the stew’s deep flavors.

Side Dishes

This stew is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread or warm buttered rolls can elevate the experience, perfect for sopping up every last tasty drop. For some added greens, a simple mixed leaf salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully, keeping the meal balanced and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic feel, serve your Beef and Potato Stew straight from a cast iron pot or in charming ceramic bowls. To impress guests, try sharing it family-style with bowls placed in the center of the table. If you want to switch things up, ladle the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles for a comforting twist that’s sure to delight everyone around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the leftover Beef and Potato Stew completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more deeply overnight, making your next meal taste even better than the first.

Freezing

This stew freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results, allowing the ingredients to rehydrate nicely and retain their tender texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Beef and Potato Stew in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the stew seems too thick after storage, a splash of beef broth or water will restore its perfect consistency. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of beef for this stew?

Absolutely! While beef cubes from chuck or stewing beef work best because they become tender with slow cooking, you can also use brisket or even short ribs. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What can I substitute for beef broth if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work in a pinch. Just know that the flavor profile will be slightly lighter. You can also boost the taste by adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the savory notes.

Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely use a slow cooker! Brown the beef and sauté the onions first for best flavor, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until the beef and vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded perfectly.

Can I add other vegetables to the Beef and Potato Stew?

Of course! Vegetables like celery, parsnips, or peas make excellent additions. Add tougher veggies like celery early in cooking, and more delicate ones like peas or green beans during the last 15 minutes so they keep their texture and vibrant color.

How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?

If after cooking your stew is thinner than you’d like, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering stew. Let it cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until it thickens to your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Potato Stew truly feels like a hug for your taste buds and soul. It is so heartwarming and easy to make that I find myself going back to it time and time again, especially when craving something cozy and filling. Give it a try—you’ll love how the flavors deepen and the tender beef and potatoes blend into pure comfort in a bowl. Gather your loved ones, ladle out a bowl, and savor every spoonful of this classic favorite.