Beef Stew with Baby Potatoes and Carrots

Name: Beef Stew with Baby Potatoes and Carrots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; 2 cups carrots, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with a hearty and comforting Beef Stew featuring tender chunks of meat, colorful baby potatoes, and sweet carrots simmered in rich broth. This timeless classic is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, delivering robust flavors and satisfying nourishment. Ideal for meal prep, this stew can be made in one pot for easy cleanup. Experience the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2025-11-29T03:02:36.841Z

This stew is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. Each bite evokes memories of shared meals and laughter around the dinner table.

The Art of Stewing

Stewing is a time-honored cooking technique that allows tough cuts of meat to transform into tender, flavorful morsels. At the heart of this process is the slow cooking method that combines moist heat with long cooking times. For beef stew, this means letting your ingredients simmer together, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully. The result is a bowl of comfort that not only nourishes but also warms the soul during colder months.

The choice of ingredients plays a pivotal role in achieving that perfect stew. Selecting high-quality beef, such as chuck, ensures a rich beefy flavor that enhances the broth. Pairing it with fresh, seasonal vegetables like baby potatoes and sweet carrots not only adds color but also infuses additional flavors. Each ingredient has a role to play, contributing to an overall delightful culinary experience.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to pairing sides with beef stew, crusty bread is a classic choice. A warm loaf allows you to soak up the delicious broth, enhancing the meal while providing a satisfying crunch. Consider a rustic sourdough that brings its own tang to the table, balancing the stew's richness.

For those looking to keep things light, a fresh garden salad works beautifully alongside beef stew. Crisp greens with a simple vinaigrette can cut through the hearty richness of the dish. This refreshing contrast will leave your guests feeling satisfied but not overly full, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings.

Leftovers and Storage Tips

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
2 cups carrots, sliced
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Steps

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot, then stir in the carrots, baby potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth.

Simmer

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Once cooked, discard the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.

Enjoy your hearty beef stew with fresh bread or a salad!

Nutritional Benefits

Beef stew isn’t just a filling meal; it also packs a nutritional punch. The combination of beef, potatoes, and carrots provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins. The beef is rich in iron, vital for energy levels, while the carrots add a healthy dose of beta carotene for vision support. When you enjoy a hearty bowl of beef stew, you’re nourishing your body thoughtfully.

In addition, incorporating more vegetables into the stew increases its fiber content. This helps with digestion and provides a sense of fullness, making it easier to manage portion sizes. Satisfying and nutritious, a bowl of this stew serves both your taste buds and health.

Chef's Secrecy

While the recipe delivers a comforting experience, consider adding your unique twist to this classic dish. Many chefs like to incorporate a splash of red wine to enhance the broth's complexity or add fresh herbs right before serving for an aromatic finish. Don't hesitate to experiment—after all, cooking is as much an art as it is a science.

Moreover, practicing patience during the simmering time can yield better results. Allowing the stew to cook low and slow not only softens the meat but also deepens the flavors. Reducing the heat and letting it gently bubble can make all the difference in enjoying a truly comforting beef stew. Try it—you might just create your own family favorite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, simply follow the same steps but cook on low for 6-8 hours instead.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.