Oven Stew Italiano
Oven Stew Italiano is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender beef, savory tomato paste, and a medley of vegetables, all baked to perfection. Its rich Italian flavors make it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comfort with a satisfying blend of herbs and robust taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat the beef with flour, then toss with cooking oil in a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Bake, uncovered, at 400°F for 30 minutes.
- Stir once during baking.
- Combine remaining ingredients (carrots, potatoes, onion soup mix, oregano, basil, tomato paste, water) and add to the meat.
- Mix well, cover, and bake for 2 hours at 375°F or until the meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the stew. If you're out of fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used but in smaller amounts, as they are more concentrated. You can also substitute the stewing beef with lean cuts from other beef recipes like chuck or brisket. To thicken the stew further, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy polenta for a comforting meal. A simple side salad can also brighten the dish, or pair it with roasted vegetables for added nutrition. This stew is perfect for meal prep, and can be enjoyed as a filling lunch or dinner. For more Italian recipes, explore options like Italian Dinner In A Dish.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Stew Italiano contains roughly 1790 calories, with 17g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (326% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (111% of the Daily Value), and potassium (68% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1081mg per serving (47% 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 other vegetables in this stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like green beans, peas, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may require less time to cook. This flexibility allows you to customize the stew to your preference.
Is there a way to make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew in advance and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, enhancing the dish. Just reheat gently before serving, adding a little liquid if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Certainly! Brown the beef in a skillet first, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender. This method allows for a hands-off approach while still delivering a flavorful stew.
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).