Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

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Few dishes embody the coziness of fall quite like this Autumn Harvest Beef Stew. This heartwarming bowl is brimming with tender chunks of beef, rustic root vegetables, and a thick, savory broth infused with herbs that taste like a walk through a crisp, golden forest. Whether you’re curled up on a rainy day or hosting a Sunday dinner, this stew brings comfort and deep, rich flavors to every spoonful.

Built for simmering low and slow, this stew is the kind of recipe that makes your whole kitchen smell like home. It’s layered with seasonal ingredients like carrots, potatoes, and butternut squash that create a naturally sweet and earthy base. Toss in some beef chuck, a few sprigs of thyme, and a splash of broth, and you’ve got a stew that tastes like it cooked all day (because it did).

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What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

The best choice for a stew like this is beef chuck roast. It has the right balance of marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness during a slow cook. Avoid leaner cuts—they can dry out instead of softening.

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Ingredients for the Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

• Beef Chuck Roast: This is the backbone of the stew, offering juicy and tender chunks after long simmering.
• Carrots: They add natural sweetness and beautiful color to the mix.
• Butternut Squash: A seasonal favorite, it softens perfectly and brings a subtle nutty sweetness.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold help thicken the stew as they cook.
• Onions & Garlic: Essential aromatics that build flavor right from the start.
• Tomato Paste: Deepens the umami profile and gives richness to the broth.
• Beef Broth: A savory base that carries all the flavors together.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds that magic savory depth you didn’t know was missing.
• Fresh Thyme & Bay Leaves: Earthy herbs that round out the fall flavor.
• Olive Oil, Salt & Pepper: The basics that pull everything into harmony.

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How To Make the Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, lower the heat and sauté chopped onions until soft, then stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Let it caramelize slightly for a deep, rich base.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Add the seared beef back in, then toss in the carrots, potatoes, squash, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and simmer on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until beef and vegetables are fork-tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Final Taste Test

Remove bay leaves and thyme stems. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

Serve this stew piping hot with crusty bread or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for extra indulgence. It’s also perfect in a bread bowl on a chilly evening.

For storage, let the stew cool completely and transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. It reheats beautifully—just add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

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What to Serve With Autumn Harvest Beef Stew?

Crusty Sourdough Bread

Perfect for soaking up all that luscious broth.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and ideal for mopping the bowl clean.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Adds a crispy, earthy side that complements the stew’s richness.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Serve the stew on top for a cozy, hearty meal.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Try this savory side for a comforting combo.

Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze

For a touch of sweet to balance the savory, try this quick bread.

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This easy potato bake makes an indulgent partner.

Apple Fritter Bread

Warm, spiced, and perfect for dessert after this stew.

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Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you love this hearty beef stew, you might also enjoy these other comfort-filled favorites:

• Easy Beef Stroganoff for creamy, savory goodness.
• Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings when you want a chicken-based cozy dish.
• Cheeseburger Soup for a kid-friendly creamy soup option.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup to spice up your soup game.
• Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup for a delicious slow-cooked classic.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this hearty fall favorite to your Pinterest board so it’s always within reach on the next chilly evening.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe added mushrooms or swapped in sweet potatoes? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—drop your version in the comments!

Need more seasonal comfort dishes? Check out SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest for new dinner ideas and sweet treats daily.

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