When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty beef stew. The rich aroma, tender meat, and perfectly cooked vegetables are enough to warm your soul on a chilly evening. If you’ve ever thought making beef stew was too much work, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is foolproof, delicious, and so simple that anyone can pull it off. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This beef stew recipe isn’t just easy—it’s practically magical. You’ll only need basic ingredients and simple steps to create a meal that feels gourmet. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this dish so flavorful and satisfying:

Ingredient	Quantity
Beef chuck or stew meat	2 pounds
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons
Herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning	2 teaspoons
Kosher salt	3/4 teaspoon (plus more to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Sweet onion (chopped)	1 large
Carrots (peeled and chunked)	2 large
Fingerling or small red potatoes (chunked, unpeeled)	1 pound
Boiling water	3 cups
Better Than Bouillon Roast Beef Base	3 tablespoons
Tomato paste	3 tablespoons
Frozen peas	1 cup
Aged balsamic vinegar	1–2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley, basil, or tarragon (optional)	1/4 cup chopped

Preparing the Beef Stew

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325°F. This slow-and-low method ensures the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

1. Start by trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the beef chuck.
2. Cut the meat into 1-inch chunks and place them in a Dutch oven or any large oven-safe pot.
3. Sprinkle the flour, herbs de Provence, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder over the beef. Toss until the meat is evenly coated.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Liquid

1. Tuck the chopped onion and carrots around the beef in the pot.
2. Place the potatoes on top of the meat and vegetables—don’t mix them in yet.
3. In a measuring cup, whisk together the boiling water, beef base, and tomato paste. Pour this liquid mixture over the contents of the pot.

Step 4: Bring to a Simmer

Place the pot on the stovetop over high heat. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer before transferring it to the oven.

Baking the Beef Stew

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the center rack of your oven. Let it bake for 2 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld and the beef will start to soften.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

After 2 hours, remove the lid and let the stew bake uncovered for an additional hour. This step helps thicken the stew and gives it a luscious texture.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thinner stew, leave the lid on for an additional 30–40 minutes and only remove it during the last 20–30 minutes of baking.

Finishing Touches

Step 7: Add Peas and Vinegar

Once the stew has baked, take the pot out of the oven. Stir in the frozen peas and balsamic vinegar. The heat from the stew will thaw the peas in about 5 minutes.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or tarragon for a burst of brightness.

Serving Suggestions

This beef stew is a meal in itself, but you can elevate it even further with:

• Crusty bread for dipping
• A side of creamy mashed potatoes
• A simple green salad for freshness

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: You don’t need fancy equipment or hours of prep.
2. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors.
3. Customizable: Swap out veggies, adjust seasonings, or make it spicier with chili flakes.
4. Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Tips for Success

• Use Quality Beef: Beef chuck works best for its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.
• Don’t Skip the Browning: Coating the beef in flour helps thicken the stew naturally.
• Layer Ingredients Strategically: Keeping the potatoes on top ensures they don’t get mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this beef stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Follow the same steps for preparing the beef and vegetables, then cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours.

2. Can I freeze leftover beef stew?
Yes! Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly. Lamb or pork can work, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

4. Can I make this stew gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

5. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include parsnips, turnips, or celery for extra flavor.

6. How do I make the stew spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef.

Conclusion: Warm Up with the Easiest Beef Stew You’ll Ever Make

There’s no better way to end a long day than with a bowl of this comforting, hearty beef stew. With its melt-in-your-mouth meat and perfectly cooked veggies, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how easy and delicious homemade beef stew can be!

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