Oven Stew Beef
Oven stew beef offers tender, flavorful beef cooked in a rich mushroom onion soup with sherry, perfect for hearty family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the dry mushroom onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, and sherry or red wine.
- Cut the stew beef into small cubes and pour the mixture over the beef.
- Stir everything together to combine well.
- Cover and bake at 325°F for 3 hours until the beef is tender.
- Serve hot with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs like thyme to the soup mixture. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. For a variation, substitute the stew beef with braised sirloin tips or even chicken for a lighter option. Ensure the beef is well-seared before adding the liquid for optimal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the oven stew hot over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complements the meal perfectly. For a comforting twist, try pairing it with cornbread or mashed potatoes. This hearty dish also goes well with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors. Explore more beef recipes for additional meal ideas!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover oven stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, until hot. For longer storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months, thawing it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Stew Beef contains roughly 240 calories, with 34g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 240 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the stew beef with pork or chicken if desired. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster. For a different flavor profile, try using lamb or even a mix of meats for a more complex stew.
Is it necessary to brown the beef before baking?
While browning the beef adds extra flavor, it is not strictly necessary for this recipe. If you are short on time, you can skip this step and directly combine the beef with the soup mixture. However, browning can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and make the beef incredibly 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).