Hearty Winter Beef Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Nothing says winter like a warm, tender bowl of beef stew filled with rich flavors, tender beef, hearty potatoes, and carrots simmered in a savory, herby broth. This classic dish is perfect for chilly days when all you need is a big bowl of comfort.

Ingredients for the Perfect Beef Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to achieving that perfectly rich and flavorful stew. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red  (optional but adds great depth)
• 1 lb potatoes, diced
• 4 large carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to the Best Beef Stew

Follow these steps to create a beef stew that’s as delicious as it is comforting.

1. Prepare the Beef

Tip: Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor that makes a big difference!

1. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each side until browned. Set aside the beef once browned.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, celery, and carrots.
2. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and vegetables soften—about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and flour, cooking for an additional minute to develop flavor and thicken the broth.

3. Build the Flavorful Broth

1. Deglaze the pot with red , scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (these add incredible flavor).
2. Pour in the beef broth and add the browned beef, potatoes, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Pro Tip: Let the stew simmer for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become fall-apart tender.

4. Season and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
2. Ladle the stew into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.

Why This Beef Stew Recipe is Perfect for Winter

The magic of this beef stew lies in its slow-cooked richness. Allowing the stew to simmer for a few hours creates tender beef and fully infused flavors in the broth. This hearty dish will leave everyone feeling cozy and satisfied.