Busy Day Dinner
A hearty, comforting stew perfect for busy days, featuring tender beef, sweet carrots, and savory onion flavor. Baked slowly to develop rich tastes, this dish is ideal for family dinners and pairs well with noodles for a satisfying meal that requires minimal preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a large roasting pan.
- Preheat oven to 300°F and bake, covered, for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
- Serve over noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the roasting pan. If you don't have beef consomme, you can substitute it with beef broth or stock. Fresh vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition. To enhance the dish, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew over egg noodles for a comforting meal. A side of crusty bread can also be delightful for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a fresh contrast, consider pairing it with a light salad like Mimi'S Texas Slaw. This dish also works beautifully with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Cover and stir occasionally until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Busy Day Dinner contains roughly 146 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (127% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, you can definitely make this recipe in a slow cooker. After browning the meat, combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This method will yield tender meat and rich flavors.
What can I add to the stew for extra flavor?
For added depth, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also add a bay leaf during cooking. A splash of red wine can enhance the broth's richness. For a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or pepper flakes can be stirred in just before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
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).