EASY HOMEMADE BEEF STEW

Yes!  Nothing beats a warm bowl of easy homemade beef stew—hearty, comforting, and perfect for any time you want a cozy meal without fuss.

Here’s a classic, simple version that anyone can make:

Easy Homemade Beef Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tbsp oil (olive or vegetable)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 3 potatoes, peeled & cubed

• 2 stalks celery, chopped (optional)

• 3 cups beef broth

• 2 tbsp tomato paste (or 1 small can diced tomatoes)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)

• Optional: 1 cup peas or corn (added at end)

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches (don’t overcrowd). Brown on all sides. Set aside.

2. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Deglaze: Add tomato paste and a splash of broth. Scrape up all those delicious browned bits.

4. Combine: Return beef to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, celery, herbs, salt, pepper, and the rest of the broth. Add bay leaf.

5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then lower heat, cover, and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, or until beef is fork-tender.

6. Thicken the stew: Mix 2 tbsp flour with ¼ cup water to make a slurry. Stir into the stew and let simmer 10–15 more minutes.

7. Final touches: Add peas or corn at the end if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.

8. Serve: Hot, with crusty bread or over rice.

 Pro tip:

Add a splash of red wine with the broth for rich depth of flavor. (Totally optional, but worth it.)

Want to do this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot? I can give you that version too!