When the chill of winter sets in or you just need a bowl of heartwarming comfort, this Easy Homemade Beef Stew delivers big flavor in every bite. With tender chunks of beef, earthy potatoes, sweet carrots, and a rich, savory broth seasoned just right, it’s the kind of recipe that turns any day into a cozy one. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this stew is both satisfying and fuss-free.

Unlike many complicated versions, this beef stew is designed for simplicity without sacrificing taste. All you need are everyday pantry staples and a bit of patience while it simmers to perfection. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth tender it becomes. One pot, one hearty meal, countless smiles.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use for Beef Stew?

Chuck roast is the classic go-to. It’s affordable, marbled, and breaks down beautifully over low and slow cooking. If you’re in a pinch, stew meat pre-cut from the butcher works just fine too, but nothing beats cutting your own from a good chuck.

Ingredients for the Easy Homemade Beef Stew

Beef Chuck Roast: The star protein, rich in flavor and tenderness after slow cooking.

Potatoes: Yukon golds or baby potatoes hold their shape and soak up flavor without getting mushy.

Carrots: Add natural sweetness and vibrant color to balance the savory depth.

Onion & Garlic: Aromatics that bring foundational flavor to the stew base.

Tomato Paste: Adds rich umami and body to the broth.

Beef Broth: The hearty liquid backbone of the dish.

Flour: Used to lightly dredge the beef and thicken the stew.

Olive Oil & Butter: For browning the beef and sautéing veggies, adding richness.

Bay Leaves, Thyme, and Paprika: For that warm, earthy, and spiced essence.

Salt & Pepper: Essential to make the flavors pop.

How To Make the Easy Homemade Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil and butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Lightly coat the beef chunks in flour, shake off excess, and brown on all sides. This step locks in flavor. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until soft. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking until fragrant and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the browned bits. Return the beef to the pot. Stir in paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Simmer

Add carrots and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the broth has thickened.

Step 5: Final Touch

Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Easy Homemade Beef Stew

This stew is a one-bowl wonder but pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even buttered noodles for something extra cozy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

To freeze, let the stew cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot.

What to Serve With Easy Homemade Beef Stew?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

If you’re skipping potatoes in the stew, ladle it over these for ultra-comfort food.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

Try a baked spin on potatoes for a rich, cheesy side dish from our collection: Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Golden, cheesy, and crispy, they add texture and flavor alongside the stew: Parmesan Baked Potatoes.

The Best Lion House Dinner Rolls

Buttery, fluffy, and perfect for dipping: The Best Lion House Dinner Rolls.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Easy Homemade Beef Stew, here are a few more hearty meals to keep in your rotation:

Easy Shepherd’s Pie for cozy, baked comfort.
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy when you need something fuss-free.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup with a spicy twist.
Cheeseburger Soup if you’re craving something playful and filling.
Philly Cheesesteak Soup for bold flavors in a bowl.

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 red wine or a swirl 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.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Easy Homemade Beef Stew

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of this Easy Homemade Beef Stew — the ultimate comfort food. With tender chunks of beef, creamy potatoes, sweet carrots, and a rich, savory broth, it’s the kind of soul-satisfying meal that fills your home with warmth. Whether you’re after a quick dinner solution, a hearty weekend recipe, or meal prep for the week, this one-pot dish is perfect. It’s a must-try for anyone searching for easy dinner ideas, classic food recipes, healthy homemade meals, or slow-cooked beef favorites that feel like a hug in a bowl.