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Homemade beef stew with tender meat and vegetables simmered in rich broth

Hearty Beef Stew

A rich and comforting beef stew perfect for chilly weather, made with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and savory broth. It's easy to prepare in a traditional pot, slow cooker, or Instant Pot.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pound Chuck roast, cut into chunks Best cut for stew, stick to tough beef.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 3 clove Garlic, minced
  • 4 medium Carrots, sliced
  • 3 medium Potatoes, diced
  • 4 cup Beef broth Add more if needed.
  • 2 leaf Bay leaves For flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Thyme, fresh Sprinkle to taste.
  • 1 splash Worcestershire sauce Optional, for added flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Flour or cornstarch For thickening the stew.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Brown the beef chunks in a pot until well-seared to enhance the flavor.
  • Add onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes into the pot with the browned beef.
  • Pour in beef broth until it almost covers the ingredients.
  • Add bay leaves and thyme, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.
  • Taste and adjust the salt as necessary.

Slow Cooker Instructions

  • Place beef chunks at the bottom of the slow cooker, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Layer carrots, onions, and potatoes on top of the beef.
  • Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Add bay leaves and thyme.
  • Set to LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.

Instant Pot Instructions

  • Using the 'Sauté' function, brown the beef chunks in oil.
  • Add in onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
  • Add herbs and broth, then cover with the lid.
  • Set on 'Meat/Stew' mode for 35 minutes.
  • Allow steam to release naturally for 10 minutes before uncovering.

Thickening the Stew

  • To thicken, mix flour or cornstarch in cold water and stir into the stew.
  • Let it simmer uncovered until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  • Optional: mash some potatoes in the pot for extra thickness.

Notes

Serve with buttery bread or rolls, steamed greens, or a classic salad for a balanced meal. Leftovers freeze well and can be reheated without losing flavor.
Keyword beef stew, Comfort Food, Hearty Stew, quick beef stew, slow cooker stew