There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Old Fashioned Beef Stew on a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that brings comfort to every bite. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this stew is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even sharing with friends. Read on to discover how to make the best Old Fashioned Beef Stew with step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure you get it just right.

What is Beef Stew?
Beef stew is a hearty dish made with beef chunks, vegetables, and a savory broth. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that has stood the test of time. While there are countless variations of beef stew, the old-fashioned version remains a favorite for many. It typically features slow-cooked beef and root vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes, all simmered together to create a delicious and filling meal.
Now, let's dive into the details on how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients List for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Here's a list of everything you'll need for this delicious stew:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast) – For tender, flavorful beef, chuck roast is ideal.
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch (divided) – This helps thicken the stew to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of both the beef and the vegetables.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick and balances the flavors.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used to sear the beef, giving it a rich, caramelized flavor.
- 2 cloves minced garlic – Garlic adds depth and an aromatic punch.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies the flavor and gives the stew a nice base.
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, savory layer to the stew.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomato paste.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil – Infuses the stew with subtle herbal notes.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Complements the basil, adding an earthy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley – Enhances the overall flavor with a fresh, mild taste.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon allspice – Adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish.
Vegetables:
- 1 ½ pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks) – A hearty addition that makes the stew more filling.
- 10 ounces pearl onions – Adds sweetness and texture to the stew.
- 4 medium carrots (sliced) – Carrots lend sweetness and color.
- 4 medium celery ribs (sliced) – Adds a subtle crunch and freshness to the dish.
Liquid Ingredients:
- 4 cups beef broth – The backbone of the stew, creating a rich and flavorful broth.
- ¼ cup cold water – Combined with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening the stew.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about beef stew is its versatility. Here are some variations and substitutions you can consider:
- Meat substitution: If you don’t have chuck roast, you can substitute with short ribs, brisket, or even lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, peas, or turnips for extra texture and flavor.
- Low-carb option: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower or other low-carb vegetables if you're watching your carb intake.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
- Wine: You can add a splash of red wine during the simmering process for a more robust and deep flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating this Old Fashioned Beef Stew takes a few hours, but the steps are simple, and the results are well worth the wait. Here’s a breakdown of how to cook it:

1. Prepare the Beef
Start by patting your beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season the beef with salt and pepper, and then toss the beef in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. The cornstarch will help create a beautiful sear on the beef and also contribute to the thickness of the stew.
2. Brown the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. Saute the Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, making sure not to burn the garlic. Then, stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute or two, allowing it to caramelize and enhance the flavors.
4. Deglaze and Add Liquids
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this is where a lot of the flavor is!). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Once the liquid is boiling, return the seared beef to the pot. Then, add the potatoes, pearl onions, carrots, and celery. Stir in the sugar, dried basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and allspice.
6. Simmer the Stew
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the stew to simmer gently for about 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is cooking evenly.
7. Thicken the Stew
To thicken the stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup cold water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the stew while stirring continuously. Let the stew simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
How to Cook Old Fashioned Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking beef stew is all about patience. The key is to let the beef simmer slowly so that it becomes tender and the flavors meld together. Here's a quick recap of the steps involved:
- Prep and sear the beef for a deep, caramelized flavor.
- Saute the aromatics to build a strong flavor foundation.
- Deglaze with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to capture all the flavor in the pot.
- Add the vegetables and seasonings to create a hearty, well-balanced stew.
- Simmer slowly for 2 to 2 ½ hours to tenderize the meat and meld the flavors.
- Thicken the stew using a cornstarch slurry for the perfect consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the beef: Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful stew. Always brown the beef for maximum flavor.
- Rushing the simmering process: The longer the stew simmers, the more tender and flavorful the meat becomes. Don’t try to rush this step.
- Overcrowding the pot: When browning the beef, cook it in batches. Overcrowding the pot prevents proper browning.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste the stew towards the end of the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Beef stew is a rustic dish, so keep the presentation simple yet inviting. Here are some ideas:
- Serve the stew in deep bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Pair the stew with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.
- For an elegant touch, serve the stew in individual bread bowls.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Old Fashioned Beef Stew can be served as a standalone meal or accompanied by various side dishes. Some popular options include:
- Mashed potatoes: Spoon the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Rice or egg noodles: Both of these can complement the hearty flavors of the stew.
- Green salad: A light, fresh salad can balance the richness of the stew.
Presentation Ideas for Old Fashioned Beef Stew
For a cozy family dinner, serve the stew in large, rustic bowls. For a more polished presentation, you can use bread bowls or ramekins. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor.
Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead of time: Beef stew often tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together.
- Freeze leftovers: This stew freezes exceptionally well. Store it in airtight containers and reheat when needed.
- Reheating tip: When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the stew, as it tends to thicken when cooled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with lamb, pork, or even chicken thighs for a different take on the recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I make this without cornstarch?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, you can thicken the stew with flour or simply let it reduce naturally by simmering it longer.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, offering rich flavors and hearty ingredients that warm the soul. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or for meal prep, this timeless dish is sure to be a hit. By following this guide, you’ll be able to cook a delicious and satisfying stew that will become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy your cozy meal!
PrintOld Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe
This Old Fashioned Beef Stew recipe features tender chunks of beef chuck roast, red potatoes, carrots, and celery simmered in a rich beef broth seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and classic herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley. Perfect for cozy dinners, it's a flavorful and filling comfort food dish that's easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hour
- Total Time: 2 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cubed chuck roast)
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ pounds red potatoes (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 10 ounces pearl onions
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 4 medium celery ribs, sliced
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ cup cold water
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss beef with 2 tablespoons cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the beef on all sides. Remove from the pot.
- Add garlic and tomato paste to the pot, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar.
- Add browned beef back into the pot, along with potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, basil, oregano, parsley, paprika, and allspice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
- Mix remaining cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the stew to thicken. Cook an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use beef chuck roast for tender results.
- Adjust seasoning to taste as the stew simmers.
- This stew freezes well for easy meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
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