Oven Beef Stew
Oven beef stew is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender beef simmered with vegetables and rich soups, infused with savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners or hearty gatherings, it offers a slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth experience with a thick, flavorful gravy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift approximately 3 1/2 cups of flour into the large baking pot with all ingredients.
- Add beef stew meat, sliced onions, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, drained peas, tomato soup, cream of celery soup, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in half a can of liquid from peas for added flavor.
- Cover tightly with foil or use a lid if ovenproof.
- Bake for 5 hours at 275°F (135°C).
- Remove from oven and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef stew meat before adding it to the pot. You can substitute the tomato soup with crushed tomatoes for a fresher taste. If you prefer a thicker stew, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last hour of cooking. Don't hesitate to include additional vegetables like green beans or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty oven beef stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over fluffy mashed potatoes, making it a comforting meal. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors. For a complete dinner, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a side of rice. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for an added touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer to a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, at medium power to ensure even heating. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Beef Stew contains roughly 1332 calories, with 21g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (101% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (100% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% 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 different cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, while beef stew meat is ideal, you can use chuck roast or brisket as alternatives. These cuts are flavorful and become tender when cooked slowly. Just ensure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
What can I do if I want a spicier stew?
To add some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mix. You can also serve the stew with a sprinkle of hot sauce or a side of spicy pickles for an extra kick.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
To make this beef stew gluten-free, simply omit the flour in the tips and ensure that the soups you use are labeled gluten-free. You can also thicken the stew with cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with water.
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).