5-Hour Baked Stew
A hearty, slow-baked beef stew with tender meat and flavorful vegetables, perfect for comforting dinners and suitable for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange raw beef cubes in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Layer the celery, carrots, and onion slices on top of the beef.
- Mix the tomatoes, salt, sugar, and tapioca (if using) and pour over the vegetables.
- Cover and bake at 250°F (121°C) for 5 hours.
- Optional: add potatoes during the last 2 hours of baking or serve with rice, boiled, or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef cubes overnight in red wine or beef broth. If you don't have tapioca, cornstarch can be a good substitute for thickening the stew. Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for variety. For added depth, consider using a beef broth instead of water if you're not using canned tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. If you're looking for something different, consider serving it with rice, which complements the flavors well. It also makes for a comforting dish during colder months.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, ensuring they're heated evenly. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5-Hour Baked Stew contains roughly 612 calories, with 11g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2247mg per serving (98% 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 a different type of meat for this stew?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can use lamb or pork for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used, so adjust accordingly to ensure tenderness.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out too thick, simply add a bit of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it well and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors. Adjust seasoning if needed after adding more liquid.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, this stew can be adapted for a slow cooker! Simply layer the ingredients as directed and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become tender. Just be sure to add any quick-cooking vegetables, like peas, towards the end of cooking.
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).