Are you searching for the ultimate beef stew recipe that’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for chilly days? This classic homemade beef stew combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and savory herbs for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this stovetop beef stew recipe delivers rich, hearty results every time. Ready in under 3 hours, it’s ideal for meal prep or weekend dinners.
A delicious bowl of homemade beef stew with tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and herbs.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Servings: 10
Ingredients for Beef Stew Recipe
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious beef stew:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds cubed beef stew meat
- 4 cubes beef bouillon, crumbled
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces
- 4 stalks celery, cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons cold water
These everyday pantry staples make this easy beef stew recipe accessible and budget-friendly.
Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Beef Stew
Follow these straightforward instructions for the best beef stew recipe:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef stew meat and cook until well browned on all sides.
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in 4 cups of water and pour into the pot. Stir in the dried rosemary, dried parsley, and ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- Stir in the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Continue to simmer covered.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 teaspoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the stew to thicken it. Cover and simmer until the beef is tender, about 1 more hour.
For a thicker beef stew, add extra cornstarch or remove the lid during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! Pro tip: Substitute lamb for an Irish stew variation.
Nutrition Value Per Serving
This nutritious beef stew recipe provides a balanced meal. Here’s the breakdown per serving (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 401
- Total Fat: 21g (27% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 7g (37% DV)
- Cholesterol: 79mg (26% DV)
- Sodium: 436mg (19% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g (9% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% DV)
- Total Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 27g (54% DV)
- Vitamin C: 10mg (11% DV)
- Calcium: 38mg (3% DV)
- Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
- Potassium: 748mg (16% DV)
These values make this healthy beef stew recipe a great source of protein and essential nutrients.
Enjoy your homemade beef stew recipe poured over biscuits or on its own for a cozy, satisfying dish! If you try this, let us know your twists in the comments.