This hearty homemade beef stew is everything I want in a comforting, satisfying meal. It’s rich, warm, and packed with tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and deeply savory broth. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or I just need a cozy dinner that hits all the right notes, this stew never fails to bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.

Hearty Homemade Beef Stew: A Comforting Family Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to bring this stew together with simple ingredients I probably already have in the kitchen. The magic happens when everything simmers slowly, filling the house with that mouthwatering aroma that makes everyone ask, “What’s cooking?” It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup, and it gets even better the next day, making leftovers a total win. I also like that it’s flexible—I can tweak the veggies or make it in a slow cooker if I want to set it and forget it.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
olive oil
medium onion, diced
garlic cloves, minced
medium carrots, sliced
medium potatoes, diced
beef broth
red wine (optional)
tomato paste
dried thyme
dried rosemary
salt and pepper
bay leaves
frozen peas (optional)
cornstarch mixed with water for thickening (optional)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. I brown the beef cubes on all sides for 5-7 minutes, then set them aside.
In the same pot, I sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
I return the beef to the pot and add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if I’m using it), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. I give it all a good stir to combine.
I bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This is when the beef gets beautifully tender and all the flavors come together.
If I’m using peas, I add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking. To thicken the stew, I mix cornstarch with water and stir it in, letting it cook another 5 minutes. I always remember to remove the bay leaves before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 350 kcal

Variations

Vegetable Boost: I sometimes add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini to make it even more veggie-packed.
Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, I toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
Fresh Herb Finish: I like finishing the stew with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for brightness.
Slow Cooker Option: After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, I transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6–8 hours.
No Wine Version: I just use more beef broth if I want to skip the red wine.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. To reheat, I warm it slowly on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. In the microwave, I reheat it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, I can use stew meat or brisket, but I find beef chuck gives the best texture after slow cooking.

How do I make it thicker without cornstarch?

I let the stew simmer uncovered during the last 15 minutes to reduce naturally, or I mash a few potatoes in the pot to thicken it up.

Is it okay to make this stew a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, I think it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had more time to develop.

What if I don’t have tomato paste?

I’ve substituted with a couple of tablespoons of ketchup in a pinch. It adds a similar tangy sweetness and works just fine.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Sure! I skip the beef and use hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas with vegetable broth. It still turns out incredibly satisfying.

Conclusion

Making this hearty homemade beef stew always feels like a return to something simple and soul-soothing. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition in a bowl. From the first sizzle of browning beef to that final ladleful poured into a warm bowl, I’m reminded why this dish has been a favorite in my home for years. Whether I’m serving it up for a family dinner or storing it away for meal prep, it never disappoints.