3 Hour Oven Stew
A hearty, slow-baked stew with tender meat, vegetables, and a savory tomato-celery flavor, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the prepared meat, carrots, potatoes, and onion in a large roasting pan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Stir in the undiluted cream of celery soup and tomato sauce, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
- Cover the pan with the lid and bake in the oven at 325°F for 3 hours.
- About 20 minutes before the end of cooking, add the frozen peas and/or green beans on top.
- Serve hot, allowing the flavors to meld into a hearty, comforting stew.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the roasting pan. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. If you have leftover vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, feel free to add them in as well. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma and taste of the stew.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with Joel'S Spoon Rolls for a comforting meal. You can serve it with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a simple green bean dish. A glass of red wine could also complement the flavors of the stew nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the stew on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Hour Oven Stew contains roughly 1175 calories, with 18g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (130% of the Daily Value), potassium (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 481mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can use various cuts of beef like chuck roast or even pork for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is suitable for slow cooking to achieve tenderness. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I thicken the stew if it turns out too thin?
If your stew is too thin, you can create a slurry with cornstarch and water, then stir it into the stew while it simmers. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pan to naturally thicken the sauce. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Simply refrigerate it after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or serving at gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).