Introduction
There’s something special about a warm bowl of beef stew. The tender chunks of beef, soft carrots, and fluffy potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth can make any day feel cozy. Beef stew is one of those classic comfort foods that’s loved all around the world. It’s filling, healthy, and tastes even better the next day.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert chef to make it. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a hearty stew that will have your family asking for seconds. In this recipe, we’ll walk through step-by-step how to make Easy Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family meal.
Ingredients – Beef Stew Carrots and Potatoes
To make about 6 servings of beef stew, you will need:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium if possible)
- 1 cup water
- 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 celery stalks (optional, chopped)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken stew)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Process – Beef Stew Carrots and Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to make your stew flavorful and tender:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- Take the beef cubes and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown better.
- Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over them.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in small batches so it browns evenly. Don’t overcrowd the pot.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until nicely browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pot.
- Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until soft.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings
- Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to bring out the flavor.
Step 5: Add Liquid and Meat
- Pour in the beef broth and water.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir everything together.
Step 6: Simmer the Stew
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 7: Add Vegetables
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery (if using) to the pot.
- Let the stew cook for another 30–40 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Step 8: Thicken the Stew
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with 3 tablespoons of water to make a smooth paste.
- Stir this into the stew and cook for another 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 9: Taste and Serve
- Remove the bay leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with fresh parsley if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
| Potassium | 950 mg |
| Vitamin A | 110% DV |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
| Iron | 25% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make beef stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté onions first for extra flavor, then put everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
Q2: How can I make my stew thicker?
You can use flour, cornstarch, or even mashed potatoes to thicken your stew.
Q3: Can I freeze beef stew?
Absolutely. Let it cool, place in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with beef stew?
It goes great with crusty bread, rice, or even over noodles.
Q5: Can I use chicken or lamb instead of beef?
Yes, but cooking times will change. Chicken cooks faster, while lamb takes about the same time as beef.
Final Thoughts
Beef stew with carrots and potatoes is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. The rich broth, tender beef, and sweet vegetables make it perfect for cold days or when you just want something hearty and filling.
With this easy recipe, you can make a delicious stew even if you’re new to cooking. Just take your time, let the flavors blend, and enjoy every warm, comforting bite. Once you try it, you might find it becomes a regular dish on your dinner table.
