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Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A hearty and comforting homemade beef stew made with tender beef chuck, aromatic vegetables, and rich beef broth, slow-cooked in the oven to develop deep flavors. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this stew features simple ingredients and an easy cooking method that yields a flavorful and satisfying dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Seasoning

  • 2 pounds Beef Chuck Roast (cut into 2-inch chunks, excess fat removed)
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Coarsely Ground Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Gluten-free All-Purpose Flour (or Whole Wheat for non-gluten)

Vegetables and Flavorings

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
  • ½ Yellow Onion (chopped large)
  • 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 1 Large Carrot (or two small-medium, cut into 2-inch chunks)
  • 2 Yukon Gold Potatoes (diced into 2-inch pieces)
  • 2 Cups Beef Broth
  • ¼ Cup Tomato Paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 2 teaspoons Fresh Thyme Leaves (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for slow cooking the stew.
  2. Season and Coat Beef: Season the beef chunks with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides. Sprinkle gluten-free all-purpose flour evenly over the beef and toss to coat completely, which helps to thicken the stew later.
  3. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the beef chunks in batches for 3-4 minutes per batch, ensuring all sides are nicely seared to develop flavor. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and chopped carrot to the Dutch oven. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant.
  5. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and fresh thyme leaves to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom to incorporate those flavors.
  6. Simmer and Combine: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop, stirring to combine. Return the browned beef chunks to the pot, mix well, and cover the Dutch oven with its lid.
  7. Oven Cook: Transfer the covered Dutch oven to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender and the stew is richly flavorful.
  8. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving warm.

Notes

  • For gluten-friendly options, use gluten-free all-purpose flour; whole wheat can be substituted if gluten is not a concern.
  • Beef chuck roast is preferred for its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.
  • Beef broth can be homemade or store-bought; low sodium versions allow better control of saltiness.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, flavors improve after resting overnight.
  • To thicken the stew further, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes if needed.