5 Hour Oven Stew
A hearty, slow-baked stew featuring tender cubes of beef, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, enhanced with onions, celery, and a touch of sugar. This comforting dish offers rich flavors and is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, developing deep taste through long, gentle oven cooking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl; mix gently but well.
- Turn the mixture into a 3-quart casserole.
- Cover the casserole.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 5 hours.
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat before adding it to the casserole. You can substitute parsnips for carrots for a different taste or add some diced bell peppers for extra color. If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the tapioca slightly. Feel free to use any leftover vegetables you have on hand to customize this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with Roasted Potato Wedges or a slice of crusty Monterey Jack Bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a light salad to balance the flavors. For a comforting finish, consider enjoying a scoop of Strawberry Sherbet for dessert after your stew.
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 medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a covered dish, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Hour Oven Stew contains roughly 852 calories, with 16g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and potassium (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in this recipe. Just add them directly to the mix without thawing. They may release more moisture during cooking, so keep an eye on the liquid levels in the casserole.
Can this stew be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, combine all ingredients as directed and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any canned ingredients, like the stewed tomatoes, are gluten-free, and you're good to go!
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).