Old Fashioned Beef Stew – A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

When the temperature drops, nothing warms the soul like a bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew. This rich, flavorful, and comforting dish is a timeless classic, perfect for a cozy family dinner. The tender chunks of beef, slow-simmered in a savory broth, combined with hearty vegetables and fragrant rosemary, create a dish that’s both satisfying and economical.

Better yet, beef stew tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls, and you’ve got a wholesome, one-pot feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Flavorful – Slow-cooked beef, herbs, and veggies make this stew incredibly savory.
Perfect for Meal Prep – The flavors intensify overnight, making it even better the next day.
Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients to feed a crowd.
Customizable – Easily adjust veggies and seasonings to your taste.

Ingredients & Their Role

Base & Beef

2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and helps brown the beef.
2 pounds cubed beef stew meat – The heart of the stew, becoming fork-tender as it cooks.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the stew and creates a richer broth.

Liquid & Seasoning

4 cups water – Forms the base of the broth.
2 cups beef broth – Enhances the depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning the beef and broth.

Hearty Vegetables

4 cups cubed potatoes – Absorb flavors and add a satisfying texture.
2 cups chopped carrots – Naturally sweetens the stew and balances flavors.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Brings an earthy, aromatic touch.
1 cup fresh corn kernels – Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
1 cup fresh green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces) – Contributes a crisp, vibrant contrast.
1 cup chopped turnip (optional) – Deepens the earthy, rustic flavor.
2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (optional) – Adds natural acidity and richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef for Maximum Flavor

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add cubed beef and sprinkle with flour. Stir to coat the beef and brown on all sides for 4-5 minutes.

2. Build the Savory Broth

Pour in water, beef broth, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 1 hour, allowing the beef to become tender and flavorful.

3. Add Hearty Vegetables

Stir in potatoes, carrots (or turnips), and rosemary.
Cover and simmer for another 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
The vegetables should be soft, and the broth should be thickened.

4. Final Touches

Add corn and green beans to the pot.
Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, ensuring all the flavors meld together.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.
Pair with warm bread, biscuits, or cornbread for the ultimate meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Beef Stew

Sear the Beef Well – Browning the beef first adds deep, caramelized flavor.
Use a Heavy Pot – A Dutch oven or cast iron pot helps distribute heat evenly.
Let It Simmer Slowly – The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
Thicken the Broth – If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then stir it in during the last 15 minutes.
Make It the Day Before – Letting the stew sit overnight enhances its richness and depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

With Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness of the stew.
Wine Pairing – Serve with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for a comforting dinner.
Cheese Topping – Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or cheddar for extra flavor.

Why This Old Fashioned Beef Stew is a Must-Try

This hearty, slow-simmered beef stew is the perfect balance of comforting, rich, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, Sunday supper, or meal prep, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

Make it once, and it’ll become a family favorite for years to come!

Save this recipe & share with fellow stew lovers! What’s your favorite way to enjoy beef stew? Let me know in the comments!