Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting beef stew packed with tender chunks of beef, baby potatoes, and carrots, perfect for chilly evenings.

Abigail Foster

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:20:54.099Z

This Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots is a family favorite, combining the rich flavors of beef with the sweetness of carrots and the creaminess of baby potatoes. Perfect for warming up on a cold day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, savory flavors that comfort the soul
  • Tender beef that melts in your mouth
  • Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

The Heart of Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of beef stew, especially on a chilly evening. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth creates a dish that not only satisfies the appetite but also warms the soul. This beef stew with baby potatoes and carrots is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those cozy nights when you want to unwind with a delicious meal.

What sets this stew apart is the balance of flavors. The savory notes from the beef are complemented by the earthy sweetness of the carrots and the subtle nuttiness of the baby potatoes. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious dish that is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this beef stew is its versatility for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the start of the week, and it will only taste better as the flavors meld together over time. Simply store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze portions for a quick meal later. This makes it an excellent choice for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their weeknight dinners.

Reheating is a breeze, too. Just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, and you'll have a comforting meal ready in minutes. This stew is not only delicious but also incredibly practical, ensuring that you have a hearty option available whenever hunger strikes.

Customization and Variations

While this recipe is delightful as is, don’t be afraid to make it your own! You can add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or even green beans for more color and nutrients. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. The beauty of stew is its adaptability; feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste.

For those looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute some or all of the beef with chicken or even go vegetarian by using chickpeas or lentils. The key is to maintain the stew's hearty essence while tailoring it to your dietary preferences. Enjoy creating your unique version of this classic dish!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious beef stew:

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  • 3 large carrots, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect beef stew:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the baby potatoes, carrots, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Let the stew cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Storage Tips

To preserve the flavors and textures of your beef stew, it’s important to store it properly. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy vegetables. When stored in the refrigerator, the stew can last for up to four days, making it an ideal meal prep option.

If you decide to freeze your stew, consider portioning it into smaller containers. This way, you can easily thaw just the amount you need for a meal. When reheating frozen stew, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results, then heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Beef stew is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. For a classic touch, serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the rich broth. A simple green salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, adding a light and crisp texture to your meal.

For a complete experience, consider adding a glass of red wine or a hearty ale to your dinner table. The robust flavors of the drink will complement the savory notes of the stew, elevating your dining experience. Whether it's a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this beef stew is sure to impress.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables in this stew?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, green beans, or parsnips.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can mix cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the stew, or simply let it simmer uncovered for longer.

→ 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.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots

A hearty and comforting beef stew packed with tender chunks of beef, baby potatoes, and carrots, perfect for chilly evenings.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Abigail Foster

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  2. 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  3. 3 large carrots, sliced
  4. 1 onion, chopped
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 4 cups beef broth
  7. 2 tbsp tomato paste
  8. 1 tsp dried thyme
  9. 1 tsp dried rosemary
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. 2 tbsp olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 02

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Step 03

Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the baby potatoes, carrots, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.

Step 04

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 35g