Beef & Mushroom Stew

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a big pot of beef stew simmering on the stove. The rich aroma of slow-cooked beef mingled with earthy mushrooms and sweet carrots promises a meal that warms from the inside out. This Beef & Mushroom Stew is your ultimate cold-weather companion, packed with deep, savory flavors that develop beautifully over time.

Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or looking for a dish to impress guests without the stress, this hearty stew delivers every time. With melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, velvety mushroom slices, and a soul-soothing broth, it turns a simple stew into something unforgettable. The kind of recipe you’ll make once and crave all winter long.

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What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

Chuck roast is the top choice for beef stew. Its marbling makes it ideal for slow cooking, breaking down into fork-tender perfection as it simmers. You can also use bottom round or stew meat, but nothing beats the deep flavor and richness of a well-trimmed chuck cut.

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Ingredients for the Beef & Mushroom Stew

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut becomes incredibly tender when braised and gives the stew its signature richness.

Mushrooms: Earthy cremini or button mushrooms soak up the savory broth and add deep, umami flavor.

Carrots: They add a touch of natural sweetness and color, balancing the savory elements perfectly.

Yellow Onion: A stew essential, it breaks down into the broth and enriches the base with mellow sweetness.

Garlic: Adds punchy aroma and depth, complementing the beef and mushrooms.

Tomato Paste: It boosts the umami and gives the stew body and color.

Beef Broth: The liquid backbone of the dish, beef broth intensifies the overall savory flavor.

Red Wine (optional): Adds complexity and depth; if you skip it, just add a little extra broth.

Fresh Thyme & Bay Leaf: Classic stew herbs that perfume the dish as it simmers.

All-Purpose Flour: Used to coat the beef and thicken the stew as it cooks.

Olive Oil & Butter: A mix of both gives a rich flavor for browning and sautéing.

Salt & Pepper: To taste, these bring out the full flavors of every ingredient.

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How To Make the Beef & Mushroom Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Pat the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels, then toss them in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches to get a nice crust on all sides, then set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add diced onions and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and tomato paste, stirring frequently for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it reduce for a few minutes, then add beef broth, mushrooms, thyme, bay leaf, and the browned beef. Stir everything to combine.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Tenderness

Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 2 to 2.5 hours. You can also transfer it to a 325°F oven if preferred. Stir occasionally, checking the meat for tenderness.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the beef is fork-tender and the broth has thickened to your liking, remove the bay leaf and thyme stems. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

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Serving and Storing Beef & Mushroom Stew

This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for make-ahead meals. Serve it piping hot in deep bowls with a side of crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra-cozy experience. For leftovers, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency as needed.

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What to Serve With Beef & Mushroom Stew?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Thick slices of rustic sourdough or French bread are perfect for soaking up the rich stew broth.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes make a hearty, classic base for ladling your stew right over top.

Roasted Garlic Green Beans

These bring a touch of color and crunch, plus a little garlicky zing to balance the rich flavors.

Buttery Egg Noodles

A comforting option that absorbs the stew’s savory sauce beautifully.

Creamy Polenta

A smooth and slightly sweet contrast to the savory meat and mushrooms.

Garden Salad

A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and a light bite to the meal.

Cheddar Drop Biscuits

Soft, cheesy biscuits make a delightful, indulgent pairing.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges and bold flavor add dimension to your stew night plate.

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Want More Stew Ideas?

If this Beef & Mushroom Stew stole your heart, you’ll love these other comforting creations from the kitchen:

• Try this ultra-cozy Easy Beef Stroganoff for a creamy twist on beef classics.
• For chicken lovers, the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy is rich and hands-off.
• Looking for another hearty bowl? Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup will hit the spot.
• Dive into a Tex-Mex flavor bomb with this Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce.
• And don’t miss the Cheeseburger Soup for a fun, flavorful family hit.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of balsamic glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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