Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Poppy Walsh

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:56:26.233Z

This Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is a classic dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. The tender beef, combined with hearty vegetables, creates a delightful blend of flavors.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich and hearty flavors that warm your soul
  • Tender beef that melts in your mouth
  • Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

A Hearty Meal for Every Occasion

Beef stew is the embodiment of comfort food, ideal for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. The blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart. This stew is versatile enough to serve on its own or with crusty bread, making it a perfect choice for any meal setting.

The beauty of a beef stew lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences. For example, feel free to add peas, green beans, or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, making leftovers taste even better the next day.

Nutritional Benefits

This beef stew is not just delicious; it also packs a nutritional punch. Beef is a great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, while the carrots and potatoes provide fiber and a variety of vitamins. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that can help sustain energy levels throughout the day. Plus, with the addition of fresh herbs, you're also getting antioxidants that can support overall health.

Incorporating a hearty stew like this into your meal rotation can encourage healthier eating habits. The combination of protein, vegetables, and whole grains (if you serve it with bread or brown rice) provides a satisfying and filling meal without the need for unhealthy sides or snacks. It's a fantastic way to ensure you're getting a wholesome, complete meal in one bowl.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking for a meal prep-friendly recipe, look no further. This beef stew can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it an excellent option for busy weeks. Simply reheat portions as needed for a quick and nourishing meal that requires minimal effort. You can even freeze leftovers for up to three months for an easy meal solution later on.

To enhance your meal prep experience, consider portioning the stew into individual containers. This way, you can grab a healthy meal on the go or pack it for lunch at work or school. The flavors of the stew will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more tasty when reheated. With this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal whenever you need it.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 medium carrots, sliced
  • 4 medium potatoes, cubed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process!

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Once the stew is cooked, serve it hot with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

Serving beef stew can be as simple or as elegant as you like. For a cozy family meal, ladle generous portions into bowls and offer crusty bread or fresh rolls on the side. A light salad dressed with vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors of the stew, adding freshness to the meal.

For a more formal presentation, consider garnishing the stew with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's aroma. Pair it with a glass of red wine for an elevated dining experience.

Storage Tips

To store your beef stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps to maintain its flavor and texture. If you're planning to freeze it, make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion, as liquids will expand when frozen.

When reheating, it's best to do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the stew appears too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round steak if you prefer.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes

A comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration120 minutes
Overall Time140 minutes

Created by: Poppy Walsh

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  2. 4 medium carrots, sliced
  3. 4 medium potatoes, cubed
  4. 1 onion, chopped
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 4 cups beef broth
  7. 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  8. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  9. 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. 2 tablespoons olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 02

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Step 03

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 04

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 30g