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–+ servings
Merry

Easy Beef Stew Recipe

This hearty and flavorful beef stew is the perfect one-pot meal for cozy nights. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a dish that feels like home. The best part? It’s so simple to make, yet tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this stew is sure to be a hit!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef chuck or stew meat trimmed and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 large sweet onion chopped
  • 2 large carrots peeled and cut into 1/2-inch chunks
  • 1 pound fingerling or small red potatoes unpeeled, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 3 cups boiling water
  • 3 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon Roast Beef Base
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 –2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley basil, or tarragon (optional)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Set your oven to 325°F for a slow and even cook.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
  1. Trim any excess fat and connective tissue from the beef.
  2. Toss the beef with flour, herbs, kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Liquid
  1. Place the onion and carrots around the beef. Add the potatoes on top without stirring.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together boiling water, beef base, and tomato paste. Pour this mixture into the pot.
Step 4: Bring to a Simmer
  1. Heat the pot on the stovetop over high heat until the mixture simmers.
Step 5: Bake the Stew
  1. Cover the pot with a lid and bake on the center rack for 2 hours.
  2. Remove the lid and bake for an additional hour to thicken the stew and tenderize the beef.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
  1. Stir in the frozen peas and balsamic vinegar. Replace the lid and let the peas thaw for 5 minutes.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
  3. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Thicker Stew: Bake uncovered longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Let the stew cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Herb Substitutions: Use dried thyme or rosemary if you don’t have herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add parsnips, celery, or even mushrooms for additional flavor.

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