Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes

Name: Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this hearty Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes, perfect for cozy nights.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:55:52.955Z

This Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef becomes tender while the vegetables soak up all the rich flavors.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly evenings
Tender beef infused with savory herbs
Simple ingredients make it an easy weeknight dinner

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef stew to comfort the soul. This Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is the quintessential dish that brings the family together around the dinner table. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients offer a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or rainy days.

One of the best aspects of this stew is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to fit your taste. Whether you prefer a bit more spice or a hint of sweetness, this recipe provides a solid foundation that can be adapted to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have in your fridge.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the most tender and flavorful beef, searing the meat is a crucial step. This process locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust that adds depth to the overall flavor of the stew. Make sure your pot is hot enough before adding the beef, as this enhances the browning effect. Don't overcrowd the pot; if necessary, sear the beef in batches to ensure even cooking.

Another tip for a delicious stew is to allow it to simmer slowly. Cooking the stew on low heat for an extended period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory broth. It’s worth the wait, as the longer cooking time transforms the beef into melt-in-your-mouth bites, while the vegetables become tender and infused with the stew's delightful flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 medium carrots, sliced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious beef stew.

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add carrots and potatoes, stirring for a few minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are melded.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty beef stew!

Let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Leftovers and Storage

One of the greatest joys of making a beef stew is enjoying the leftovers. This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator, allowing you to savor the flavors for days after the initial meal. To store, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

If you want to extend the life of your beef stew even further, consider freezing it. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

This Beef Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, the carrots offer a good dose of vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Potatoes add carbohydrates, which are vital for energy, making this stew a balanced meal.

Herbs and spices like thyme and bay leaves not only enhance the flavor but also bring their own health benefits. Thyme is known for its antibacterial properties, while bay leaves can aid in digestion. By incorporating these ingredients, you’re not just making a comforting dish; you’re also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients that contribute to overall well-being.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for this stew?

Yes, you can use lamb or pork, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, just follow the same steps and cook on low for 6-8 hours.