Microwave Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting microwave beef stew featuring tender beef cubes, carrots, potatoes, and peas, all simmered in savory onion soup mix. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick family dinner, it combines rich flavors with minimal effort for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart casserole, combine beef, 1/2 cup water, onion soup mix, carrots, and potatoes.
- Cover with a glass lid and cook on High for 8 minutes.
- Reduce heat to Low and cook for 1 to 1 1/4 hours or until beef and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in drained peas.
- Blend flour with remaining water until smooth and stir into the stew.
- Cook on High for 4 to 5 minutes or until the stew is thickened, stirring once.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the casserole. If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the flour to 1/3 cup. You can substitute the onion soup mix with homemade onion powder or dehydrated onions for a fresher taste. Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers to enhance the stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef stew with crusty bread, like a fresh Swiss Loaf, for dipping. A side salad or steamed green beans pairs nicely to balance the meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or rice. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Beef Stew contains roughly 1135 calories, with 23g protein, 183g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (174% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), and potassium (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 22g 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, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure they are well-trimmed and cut into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. These cuts will also benefit from the slow cooking process, becoming tender and flavorful.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew when cooking. You can also add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Is it possible to make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! This stew can be made a day ahead. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving for the best taste.
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).