Winter One Dish
A hearty winter one-dish beef stew with tender meat, vegetables, and macaroni, simmered in a savory tomato and barbecue sauce blend, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Brown meat in vegetable oil.
- Stir in water, tomatoes, barbecue sauce, onions, and bay leaf. Bring to a rolling boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until meat is tender.
- Add carrots, celery, and macaroni to the stew.
- Cover and simmer for an additional 30 to 40 minutes.
- Serve hot, preferably with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the beef in barbecue sauce overnight before cooking. You can substitute the macaroni with any pasta shape or even use quinoa for a gluten-free option. If you like a thicker stew, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread, making it a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this winter stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. Consider serving a simple green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast. For a cozy meal, enjoy this dish alongside 'Old Hearty' Cottage Supper or any of your favorite beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the stew. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Winter One Dish contains roughly 755 calories, with 18g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1061mg per serving (46% 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 frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables with frozen ones for convenience. Just add them during the last 20 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking. Frozen carrots, peas, or mixed vegetables work well in this hearty stew.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes when you add the other ingredients. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a warming kick during the winter months.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
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).