Delicious Beef Stew and Dumplings

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When the weather turns chilly or you’re just in the mood for something truly comforting, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of beef stew and dumplings. This dish brings together tender chunks of beef, rich and savory gravy, and soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up every ounce of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out, perfect for slow Sundays or cozy family dinners.

This recipe is more than just a winter classic; it’s a nod to the rustic traditions of home cooking where simple ingredients come together to create something soul-satisfying. Whether you’re making it for the first time or you’re revisiting a childhood favorite, this beef stew with dumplings is a timeless dish that delivers every single time.

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What Kind of Stewing Beef Should I Use?

When choosing the right cut for your stew, go for chuck roast or stewing beef labeled as suitable for slow cooking. These cuts may seem tough at first glance, but they’re exactly what you want for a stew. After a low and slow simmer, they break down into melt-in-your-mouth bites, soaking up the robust flavors of the gravy while adding their own richness to the pot.

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Ingredients for the Delicious Beef Stew and Dumplings

• Beef chuck roast or stewing beef – This is the heart of the dish. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking and deliver deep beefy flavor.
• Onions – Adds sweetness and body to the base of your stew.
• Carrots and celery – These traditional mirepoix vegetables build flavor and provide texture.
• Garlic – A must for depth and aroma.
• Tomato paste – Helps thicken the stew and gives it an umami boost.
• Beef broth – The flavorful liquid base that pulls everything together.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds a subtle tang and extra layer of flavor.
• Bay leaves and thyme – Classic herbs that make your stew smell and taste amazing.
• Flour – Used for dusting the beef and thickening the gravy.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning to bring the stew to life.
• Self-rising flour and butter (for dumplings) – These make the dumplings light and fluffy.
• Milk – Combines with flour and butter to form the dumpling dough.

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How To Make the Delicious Beef Stew and Dumplings

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then toss them in flour to give them a light coating. Heat a bit of oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven, and sear the beef in batches until nicely browned. This step locks in flavor and builds the base for a rich stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once all the beef is browned and set aside, use the same pot to sauté the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Build the Stew

Return the beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add bay leaves and thyme, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef will become tender and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the stew simmers, mix the self-rising flour and butter in a bowl until crumbly. Stir in the milk gradually to form a sticky but scoopable dough. Don’t overwork it—the less you handle it, the fluffier your dumplings will be.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of the dough over the top of the simmering stew. Make sure they’re spread evenly and not submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings steam for about 15 to 20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as the steam is what makes the dumplings rise and stay tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaves, taste for seasoning, and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls, making sure each serving gets a generous helping of both stew and dumplings. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve piping hot.

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Serving and Storing Your Beef Stew and Dumplings

This stew is best served straight from the pot while it’s hot and the dumplings are still fluffy. For a beautiful table presentation, ladle it into wide bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme. If you have leftovers, allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Beef stew with dumplings stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew portion (without dumplings) for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop and consider making a fresh batch of dumplings when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

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What to Serve With Beef Stew and Dumplings?

Crusty Bread

A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough slice is perfect for mopping up the savory gravy.

Steamed Green Beans

Add a pop of green and crunch to balance out the richness of the stew.

Simple Garden Salad

A refreshing salad with vinaigrette brings lightness to your plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their slightly crispy, caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with the stew.

Mashed Turnips or Parsnips

A comforting and rustic addition that complements the flavors well.

Pickled Vegetables

Their tanginess offers a bright contrast to the deep flavors of the stew.

Apple Slaw

A crisp, slightly sweet slaw refreshes the palate and adds texture.

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Want More Stew Ideas?

If this beef stew and dumplings recipe hit the spot, here are a few more cozy favorites to warm your belly and heart:

• Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings for a lighter, poultry version of the classic.
• Easy Shepherd’s Pie for that baked, meaty goodness topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup if you love rich brothy meals with bold flavor.
• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes to serve alongside or indulge in creamy comfort.
• Cheeseburger Soup for a crowd-pleasing, cheesy twist on soup night.

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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 added red wine or a splash of cream? 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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