Best-Ever Beef Stew
A hearty, flavorful beef stew with tender meat and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for those craving rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim meat and cut into 2-inch cubes. In a large plastic bag, combine flour, garlic salt, and pepper.
- Shake meat in the bag, 3 to 4 pieces at a time, to coat.
- Melt butter in a large stew pan and brown meat on all sides on low heat.
- When browned, add water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add bouillon cubes and bay leaf. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add chopped vegetables (carrots, onions, potatoes). Increase heat and cook for an additional hour.
- Thicken the stew with a mixture of flour and water.
- Heat through and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you're out of bouillon cubes, use homemade stock instead. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch; refer to our Foolproof Cornstarch Gravy for guidance. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A side salad can add a refreshing contrast. For a comforting experience, pair it with mashed potatoes or explore other beef recipes that complement this dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best-Ever Beef Stew contains roughly 1318 calories, with 25g protein, 208g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (78% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 18g 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 other cuts of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use chuck roast or brisket, which are also great options for stewing due to their marbling and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the meat is tender and cooked through.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. Alternatively, a splash of hot sauce just before serving can provide a nice kick without overpowering the dish's overall flavor.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first for added flavor, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
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).