Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew with Vegetables

There’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of beef stew on a chilly day. This hearty one-pot beef stew with vegetables is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. Packed with tender chunks of beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich, savory broth, it’s a meal that warms both body and soul. Best of all, it’s made in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a hearty bowl of beef stew. This recipe combines tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef with wholesome vegetables and a rich, savory broth. Beyond its comforting flavors, it’s a one-pot wonder, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. You’ll love how simple it is to make yet full of deep, layered flavors.

• Easy and convenient: Everything cooks in a single pot, saving time and effort.
• Nutritious and filling: Loaded with beef, potatoes, carrots, and other hearty vegetables.
• Flexible: You can swap vegetables or adjust seasoning to taste.
• Perfect for leftovers: Flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this stew starts with simple, wholesome ingredients. From high-quality beef and fresh vegetables to aromatic herbs and savory broth, each component plays a role in building a rich, satisfying flavor. Gathering these ingredients ahead of time makes cooking seamless and stress-free.

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-2 inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 large potatoes, cubed
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup peas (optional)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

How to Make – Step by Step

Cooking this beef stew is straightforward when broken down step by step. Searing the beef, simmering the broth, and adding vegetables at the right time ensures each element reaches perfect tenderness. Following these steps guarantees a flavorful, comforting stew every time.

1. Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
3. Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, then add beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer the beef: Return the beef to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue to simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Add peas in the last 5 minutes if using.
6. Optional thickening: For a thicker stew, mix flour with a little water to make a slurry and stir it into the stew. Cook for another 5–10 minutes.
7. Serve hot: Remove bay leaves and serve the stew warm with crusty bread or over rice.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

One of the best parts of this stew is its flexibility. Whether you want to swap vegetables, try a different cut of beef, or experiment with herbs, the recipe adapts beautifully. This section gives ideas to customize the stew to your taste or pantry supplies.

• Beef: Try stew meat, short ribs, or chuck roast.
• Vegetables: Add parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms for extra depth.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can replace dried herbs.
• Broth: Use a mix of beef and vegetable broth for a lighter version.

Chef’s Tips

Even a simple recipe can benefit from a few pro tips. From browning the beef for maximum flavor to adding a splash of wine or letting the stew rest, these techniques elevate your stew from good to exceptional.

• Brown the beef well—this adds rich flavor to the stew.
• Let the stew rest for 15–20 minutes before serving; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• For extra richness, stir in a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce during simmering.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is versatile in how it’s served. Whether ladled over mashed potatoes, paired with crusty bread, or garnished with fresh herbs, there are countless ways to present it for maximum comfort and satisfaction.

• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the broth.
• Pair with mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of coarse black pepper for color and freshness.

Storing Tips

Proper storage ensures your stew stays flavorful and safe to eat. Whether refrigerating for a few days or freezing for later, these tips help preserve texture, taste, and freshness.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Conclusion

This hearty one-pot beef stew with vegetables is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and effortless to prepare. Perfect for cozy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep, it brings warmth and satisfaction to every bowl. Don’t wait for a chilly day to enjoy it—gather your ingredients, fire up your pot, and experience the magic of tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and savory broth. Try this recipe today and share it with your loved ones, you’ll have a delicious meal and plenty of leftovers to savor.

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