There's something timeless and comforting about an old-fashioned beef stew. Whether it's the rich, tender beef, the hearty vegetables, or the savory broth that makes it irresistible, one thing is certain – it’s the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for cold days or a cozy family dinner, this classic recipe is both satisfying and easy to make. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making the perfect old-fashioned beef stew, including tips, substitutions, and step-by-step instructions. Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

What is an "Old Fashioned Beef Stew"?
Old-fashioned beef stew is a slow-cooked dish made with chunks of beef, vegetables, and a savory broth. Traditionally, it’s simmered for hours until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together into a hearty, delicious meal. The stew is often made with ingredients like carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, and sometimes peas, along with a flavorful mix of herbs and spices. It's the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite.
Ingredients List for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Here are the essential ingredients you'll need to create a classic old-fashioned beef stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium, if preferred)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can be replaced with additional broth)
- 4 large carrots (peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 large potatoes (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 celery stalks (sliced)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 cup peas (optional, added at the end)
Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ons
While the basic beef stew recipe is delicious on its own, there are several add-ons that can enhance its flavor or add a unique twist:
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a deep, savory umami flavor to the stew.
- Mushrooms – For an earthier taste, add sliced mushrooms.
- Parsnips – A great alternative to carrots, adding a slightly sweet flavor.
- Turnips – Another hearty root vegetable that pairs well with beef.
- Pearl onions – For a slightly sweeter onion flavor.
- Fresh herbs – Consider using fresh thyme and rosemary for a more robust flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
Beef stew is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Meat Substitution: If you prefer, you can substitute the beef with lamb or pork for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, try using chicken thighs.
- Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based version, replace the beef with a meat alternative like tempeh or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add more hearty vegetables like squash, sweet potatoes, or beans for substance.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need to avoid gluten, replace the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken the stew. Make sure your broth is also gluten-free.
- Wine Substitution: If you don’t want to use wine, simply replace it with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a slight tang.
- Flavor Variations: Play around with spices to give the stew a unique twist. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, or even a dash of chili flakes for a spicier version.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the process of making an old-fashioned beef stew. While it may take some time to cook, the steps are straightforward and rewarding.
- Prepare the Beef: Start by cutting the beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Pat the beef dry with a paper towel to ensure it browns well.
- Brown the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown all sides of the beef, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add Flour and Tomato Paste: Stir in the flour and tomato paste. This will help to thicken the stew and deepen the flavors. Cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is well incorporated.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (or additional broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Add Broth and Spices: Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add Vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot. Stir to distribute the vegetables evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Peas: In the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, add the peas (if using). Simmer until they are warmed through.
- Finish and Serve: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaves and serve hot.
How to Cook Old Fashioned Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather Ingredients – Ensure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready.
- Sear Beef – Brown the beef to develop flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables – Onions and garlic give the stew a flavorful base.
- Thicken with Flour – Adding flour helps create a rich, thick broth.
- Deglaze – Red wine or broth helps lift all the delicious bits from the pan.
- Simmer and Wait – Let time do the work by simmering slowly to tenderize the meat.
- Finish with Peas – Add peas at the end for a burst of sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the beef is essential for flavor. Don’t rush this step.
- Overcrowding the Pan: When browning the beef, work in batches to avoid steaming the meat instead of browning it.
- Cooking at High Heat: Beef stew needs low and slow cooking to achieve tender meat.
- Not Tasting as You Go: Make sure to adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure a balanced flavor.
- Adding Vegetables Too Early: Potatoes and carrots can become mushy if added too soon. Follow the timing to keep them tender but firm.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving this comforting dish. Consider the following ideas:
- Serve in a Rustic Bowl: Stew looks great in large, rustic bowls. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
- Add a Side of Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can brighten the presentation and add a fresh element to the dish.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread, rolls, or biscuits to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Over Mashed Potatoes: For an extra hearty meal, ladle the stew over mashed potatoes.
- With Rice: Serve it with rice or even noodles for a different twist.
Presentation Ideas for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
- Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
- Serving Dishes: Use rustic ceramic bowls for a homestyle presentation, or go fancy with individual cast-iron pots for a bistro feel.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: It also freezes well. Just store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Use a Slow Cooker: If you prefer, you can make this in a slow cooker. Just brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make beef stew without wine? Yes, you can substitute the wine with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.
2. What’s the best cut of beef for stew? Beef chuck roast is the best cut for stew because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
3. How do I thicken beef stew? You can thicken beef stew by adding flour at the beginning or by stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water near the end of cooking.
4. Can I cook beef stew in a slow cooker? Yes, after browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.
5. Can I freeze beef stew? Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned beef stew is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. With its tender beef, flavorful broth, and variety of vegetables, this classic stew is a must-try. Follow the steps, avoid common mistakes, and serve it with pride!
PrintOld Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe delivers tender beef, rich broth, and hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. Slow-cooked for maximum flavor, this classic beef stew is the perfect comfort meal. Ideal for chilly evenings, it is simple to prepare and full of nourishing ingredients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Beef stew meat
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Onion
- Celery
- Garlic
- Beef broth
- Tomato paste
- Bay leaves
- Salt & pepper
- Olive oil
- Flour (optional for thickening)
Instructions
- Brown the beef in olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion, sautéing until soft.
- Stir in tomato paste, followed by beef broth.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until beef is tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, you can add red wine when deglazing the pan.
- This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
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