Stayaway Stew
Stayaway Stew is a hearty, comforting beef and vegetable casserole with rich tomato and mushroom flavors, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a casserole dish with a tight lid.
- Place the dish in an oven preheated to 275°F.
- Cook for at least 5 hours. Longer cooking will not affect the stew.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef before adding it to the casserole. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it in during the last hour of cooking. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version or use a different cream soup if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Stayaway Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad can complement the flavors nicely. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes, making it perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, ensuring it's heated evenly to avoid cold spots.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stayaway Stew contains roughly 1036 calories, with 29g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (257% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (255% of the Daily Value), and iron (150% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2007mg per serving (87% 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 type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can use other meats such as pork or chicken, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. If using chicken, consider adding it in the last couple of hours to prevent it from becoming dry.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to the cooking process in the oven.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the stew?
You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth. Additionally, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of soy sauce can elevate the umami flavor of the stew. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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).