Lazy Day Stew
A hearty, comforting stew featuring tender beef cubes and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for cozy evenings, it offers deep flavors and a satisfying meal for family or friends. Its simple, slow-baked process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and beef.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beef cubes in a single layer in a casserole dish.
- Layer potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery on top of the beef.
- Mix tomato sauce with one can of water and sugar, then pour over the meat and vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Seal the casserole tightly with a lid or foil.
- Bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for two hours.
- Do not uncover during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef cubes in a skillet before adding them to the casserole dish. You can substitute the beef with chicken or use vegetable broth instead of water for a different twist. If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to include bell peppers or peas, which will enhance the dish's color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lazy Day Stew with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. A fresh side salad can balance the richness of the stew. This dish pairs beautifully with Northern Beef Casserole for a comforting dinner spread or can be enjoyed on its own.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Lazy Day Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in individual portions until heated through. You can also freeze the stew for up to three months; just ensure it's well-sealed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Day Stew contains roughly 869 calories, with 14g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (144% of the Daily Value), potassium (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value). 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 meats in this stew?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking durations.
What can I do if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You can also blend fresh tomatoes with some herbs to create a homemade sauce. Adjust the seasoning to maintain the desired flavor.
Is it possible to cook this stew on the stovetop?
Certainly! If you prefer stovetop cooking, brown the beef cubes in a large pot, then add the vegetables, sauce, and water. Simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
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).