Best Easy Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting beef stew featuring tender beef, mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes, slow-baked to create rich flavors perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer beef cubes and drained mushrooms in a large baking dish. Sprinkle onion soup mix over the mushrooms.
- Spoon cream of mushroom soup on top. Arrange carrots and peeled, diced new potatoes around the edge of the baking dish.
- Cover tightly and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef cubes in a skillet before layering them in the dish. If you want a healthier twist, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or Greek yogurt. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition. This easy beef stew recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables from your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty beef stew is perfect served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Crunchy Vegetable Medley for a colorful side dish. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Easy Beef Stew contains roughly 1431 calories, with 66g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (132% of the Daily Value), potassium (104% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (79% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 15g 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 a different cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, while beef round steak is great, you can also use chuck roast or brisket for a more tender result. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed since different cuts have varying tenderness.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, simply layer the ingredients as directed and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will give you a deliciously tender beef stew.
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 until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
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).