There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of hearty beef stew. The tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked with carrots, potatoes, and herbs, create a rich, comforting meal perfect for cold days or cozy nights.

This recipe brings me back to childhood weekends, when my grandmother would let a pot of stew simmer for hours, filling the house with an aroma that made everyone excited for dinner. Whether you’re making this for a family gathering, a quiet evening, or meal prepping for the week, this classic beef stew is one of the best Dutch oven recipes you can add to your collection.

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Prep and Cooking Details

Preparation Time	Total Cooking Time	Number of Servings
20 minutes	2.5 hours	6 servings

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Ingredients for My Hearty Beef Stew

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Pro Tips for Success

1. Sear the beef well – Browning the meat before simmering adds depth and richness to the stew.
2. Use a Dutch oven for even cooking – This allows the stew to develop deep flavors while keeping the beef tender.
3. Let it simmer low and slow – The longer it cooks, the more flavorful and tender the beef becomes.
4. Add the peas at the end – This keeps them bright and fresh, avoiding mushiness.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning – Stews develop flavor as they cook, so adjust salt and herbs as needed.

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Tools You’ll Need

• Large Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Ladle

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Substitutions and Variations

Substitution	Original Ingredient	New Flavor Profile
Sweet potatoes	Russet potatoes	Adds a natural sweetness
Red wine	Beef broth (half)	Adds depth and richness
Fresh thyme	Dried thyme	More fragrant and aromatic
Pearl onions	Chopped onions	Adds a milder, slightly sweet taste

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Make-Ahead Tips

• Chop the vegetables ahead of time – Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Make the stew a day in advance – The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
• Freeze for later – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Hearty Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the beef in batches, browning on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same Dutch oven, add the remaining olive oil and reduce heat to medium.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the Stew Base

1. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the Dutch oven.
2. Add the seared beef back into the pot.
3. Stir in dried thyme and rosemary.
4. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

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Step 4: Add the Vegetables

1. Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the pot.
2. Stir, cover, and continue simmering for 30 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

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Step 5: Finish the Stew

1. Stir in frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the stew into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Serve hot with toasted bread on the side.

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Suggested Drink That Pairs With This Dish

A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec pairs beautifully with this Hearty Beef Stew. The bold tannins in these wines complement the rich, slow-cooked beef and the earthy flavors of the vegetables and herbs.

If you prefer beer, a dark stout or porter works wonderfully, as the roasty malt flavors enhance the deep, savory broth of the stew.

For a non-alcoholic option, a warm spiced apple cider brings a hint of sweetness and warmth that balances the dish perfectly.

Enjoy!

This Hearty Beef Stew is rich, flavorful, and perfect for cozy nights. Let me know how it turns out! 🍲✨