Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes

Name: Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting beef stew filled with tender beef, vibrant carrots, and hearty potatoes, perfect for chilly evenings.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:01:00.900Z

This beef stew is a family favorite, bringing warmth and comfort to the dinner table. The tender beef, combined with the sweetness of carrots and the heartiness of potatoes, creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavor that warms your soul
Tender beef that falls apart in your mouth
A complete meal in one pot that's easy to prepare

      

The Benefits of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a technique that not only enhances the flavors of your ingredients but also allows for tender, melt-in-your-mouth results. This method is perfect for tougher cuts of meat like beef chuck, which benefit from the low and slow approach. As the stew simmers, the flavors meld together, creating a rich and savory broth that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Additionally, slow cooking is convenient for busy households. By preparing your ingredients and letting them cook low and slow, you can spend your time on other tasks while the stew develops its delicious depth of flavor. Just set it and forget it until mealtime, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to beef stew, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Opt for grass-fed beef if available; it often has a richer flavor and healthier fat profile. Fresh, seasonal vegetables are also key to creating a hearty dish. Look for vibrant carrots and firm potatoes, as they will hold their shape and add texture to your stew.

Don’t forget about seasoning! Fresh herbs and quality spices elevate your dish. Using dried thyme, as mentioned in the recipe, provides a warm, earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully. Additionally, a splash of Worcestershire sauce adds complexity and a hint of umami, making your stew even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Beef stew is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping, or over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A simple green salad can also balance the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing your beef stew with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the dish. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this beef stew is sure to impress everyone around the table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 medium carrots, sliced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready to go before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back into the pot along with carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

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

Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious beef stew!

Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an added touch of flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover beef stew, you’re in luck! This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, consider freezing your stew. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Beef stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Variations to Try

While this beef stew recipe is hearty and satisfying on its own, feel free to customize it to suit your taste. For a bit of spice, you can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you're a fan of mushrooms, adding them can introduce an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider using different types of broth, such as chicken or vegetable broth. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables like peas, green beans, or even parsnips for additional flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, making this a recipe you can adapt to your preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can use lamb or pork as alternatives to beef for this stew.

→ How can I make this stew gluten-free?

Ensure that the beef broth and any other sauces you use are labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.