Easy Stew Beef
A hearty, slow-baked beef stew with tender vegetables and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for cold weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a deep casserole.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake at 250°F for 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sear the beef cubes before mixing them with the other ingredients. If you don't have tapioca, cornstarch can be used as a thickener instead. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor. You can also throw in some herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side salad or steamed green beans pairs nicely for a balanced plate. This dish also complements a glass of red wine. For variations, consider serving it alongside Easy Sloppy Joes for a fun dinner combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Stew Beef contains roughly 782 calories, with 20g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (163% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2201mg per serving (96% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After mixing the ingredients, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delicious stew.
What type of beef is best for stew?
Boneless chuck roast is ideal for stew as it becomes tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, which may dry out. You can also use stew meat from the store, but ensure it's well-marbled for the best results.
Can I freeze the stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and enjoy the same delicious flavors when you're ready to serve.
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).