Hearty Dutch Oven Beef Stew – Perfect for Cozy Nights!

There’s something magical about a warm, hearty beef stew on a chilly evening. This Dutch Oven Beef Stew combines tender chunks of beef, earthy vegetables, and flavorful herbs in a one-pot dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. This recipe is as delicious as it is simple and will make your home smell amazing as it simmers away.

Why You’ll Love This Dutch Oven Beef Stew

This stew is the ultimate comfort food. It’s:

• Rich and Flavorful – The slow-cooked beef and fresh herbs make this dish irresistibly savory.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with vegetables and beef, it’s a complete meal in one bowl.
• Easy to Make – Once everything is in the Dutch oven, it mostly cooks itself!

Ingredients for Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Gather these ingredients for a classic and delicious beef stew:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1 cup red (optional, adds depth of flavor)
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russets work well)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 cup peas or green beans (optional, for extra color and nutrition)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.

Pro Tip: Pat the beef dry with a paper towel before seasoning; this helps it brown better!

2. Sear the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding and sear until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the stew. Set the browned beef aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and golden. This will take about 3–5 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the red (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom. This adds flavor and depth to the stew. Let the cook for about 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.

5. Build the Stew

Add the beef back to the pot, along with carrots, potatoes, celery, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir everything together, then bring the stew to a gentle simmer.

6. Let It Cook Low and Slow

Cover the Dutch oven and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer for 2–3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, try to avoid lifting the lid too often. Keeping it closed traps all those wonderful flavors in the pot!

7. Add the Finishing Touches

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the peas or green beans (if using) and let them cook until tender. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty beef stew with:

• Crusty bread or buttered rolls to soak up the delicious broth
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor
• A glass of red to complement the flavors

Pro Tips for the Best Beef Stew

• Choose the Right Beef Cut: Opt for chuck or stew meat – these cuts are affordable and become tender with slow cooking.
• Don’t Rush the Sear: Take your time browning the beef. This step adds depth to the stew.
• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute with seasonal veggies like parsnips, turnips, or mushrooms.

Make It Your Own!

This stew is perfect for adapting to your preferences. Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or add parsnips for a unique twist. You can also use chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.

Storage Tips

This stew is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Cozy Up with This Dutch Oven Beef Stew

A bowl of Dutch Oven Beef Stew is like a warm hug on a cold night. This recipe is easy, versatile, and brimming with cozy flavors. So grab your Dutch oven, gather your ingredients, and let this stew fill your kitchen with the comforting aromas of fall!