Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of beef stew to make a chilly evening feel cozy. Imagine tender, flavorful chunks of chuck beef, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savory broth, surrounded by sweet carrots, earthy potatoes, and fragrant herbs. Each spoonful is a comforting hug in a bowl, and the aroma alone will make everyone gather around the kitchen.

This Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes is the kind of meal that’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or simply indulging in a little homemade comfort food. It’s rich, satisfying, and full of deep, layered flavors that develop beautifully with every simmer. And don’t get me started on dipping warm, crusty baguette into that luscious sauce—it’s pure bliss.

Recipe Origin

Beef stew is a classic comfort food across many cultures, and this version combines French and American influences. Using chuck beef ensures maximum tenderness, while the combination of wine, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce creates a deep, savory base. The addition of potatoes and carrots makes it hearty and wholesome—exactly what you crave on a cool evening.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot:

Essential for browning the beef and simmering the stew slowly.

Wooden Spoon or Spatula:

To stir the stew without scratching your cookware.

Knife & Cutting Board:

For chopping vegetables and preparing the beef.

Measuring Cups & Spoons:

For precise seasoning and liquid measurements.

Ladle & Serving Bowls:

For portioning and serving the stew beautifully.

Optional: Baguette or Crusty Bread:

For soaking up the delicious sauce.

Why You’ll Love Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes

Tender & Flavorful:

Chuck beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.

Rich & Savory:

Red wine, tomato paste, and Worcestershire create a deeply layered flavor profile.

Hearty & Comforting:

Potatoes and carrots make every bite satisfying and filling.

Easy to Customize:

Adjust vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit your family’s taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Dinner at home, meal prep, or even a casual gathering—this stew impresses every time.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Brown the Beef Well: Searing gives extra flavor and a beautiful color.
• Deglaze the Pan: Use wine to lift all those browned bits—they’re pure flavor magic.
• Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking ensures tender meat and rich, melded flavors.
• Uniform Vegetable Sizes: Chop carrots and potatoes evenly so everything cooks consistently.
• Fresh Herbs: Add thyme and parsley near the end to keep the flavors bright.

Ingredients in Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes

Chuck Beef: Rich, marbled, and perfect for slow cooking—becomes incredibly tender.
Flour & Seasonings: Helps brown the beef and adds a subtle thickening to the stew.
Onion & Celery: Build a flavorful base with sweet, aromatic notes.
Garlic: Pungent and savory, infuses the broth beautifully.
Tomato Paste & Beef Base: Add depth, umami, and a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
Red Wine: Adds richness and complexity to the stew.
Beef Broth & Worcestershire Sauce: Creates a savory, comforting liquid that ties everything together.
Bay Leaves & Thyme: Classic herbs that enhance the aroma and flavor of the stew.
Potatoes & Carrots: Tender, hearty, and naturally sweet vegetables that complement the beef.
Fresh Parsley: Brightens the finished dish and adds a touch of color.
Baguette: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.

Prepare the Beef

Cut chuck beef into bite-sized cubes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, then toss with flour to coat evenly.

Brown the Beef

Add a drizzle of high-heat oil to the pot. Sear the beef in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until fragrant and translucent.

Build the Base

Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly. Add beef base, then pour in red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.

Simmer the Stew

Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Add Vegetables

Add chopped potatoes and carrots to the stew. Continue to simmer until vegetables and beef are tender, about 30–40 minutes more.

Finishing Touches

Remove bay leaves and thyme stems. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Serve & Enjoy

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with slices of crusty baguette for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: ~450–500
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2–2.5 hours
Total Time: 2.5–3 hours

How to Serve Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes

• Classic: Serve in bowls with fresh parsley sprinkled on top.
• With Bread: Crusty baguette or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Over Rice or Noodles: Make it a twist on traditional beef stew.
• For Meal Prep: Portion into containers for an easy, comforting lunch or dinner.
• Garnished Elegantly: Sprinkle with fresh herbs or a touch of grated cheese for a gourmet finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and season beef ahead of time.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly for best results.

Variations to Try

• Add More Veggies: Parsnips, turnips, or peas for extra texture and flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a little heat.
• Wine-Free: Substitute with extra beef broth if avoiding alcohol.
• Herb Mix: Mix rosemary, thyme, or sage for unique flavors.
• Thickened Stew: Use a slurry of flour or cornstarch to thicken further if desired.

Additional Tips

• Even Searing: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure proper browning.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté aromatics, deglaze with wine, and simmer slowly for maximum depth.
• Taste & Adjust: Always taste before serving to balance seasoning.
• Visual Appeal: Garnish with parsley or chives for a pop of color.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A1: Yes! Chuck is ideal, but brisket or short ribs also work well.

Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A2: Absolutely—brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Q3: Can I skip the wine?
A3: Yes, substitute with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables?
A4: Definitely—turnips, parsnips, peas, or green beans all work.

Q5: Can I thicken the stew more?
A5: Mix flour or cornstarch with a little water and stir into the simmering stew until desired consistency.

Q6: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A6: Yes! The flavors deepen if made a day in advance.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q8: Can I freeze this stew?
A8: Yes, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.

Q9: Should I peel the potatoes?
A9: Optional—leaving the skin adds texture and nutrients.

Q10: Can I make this stew spicy?
A10: Yes, add chili flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika to taste.

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Conclusion

This Beef Stew with Carrots & Potatoes is a comforting classic made for cozy nights and happy gatherings. Tender beef, sweet carrots, hearty potatoes, and a deeply savory sauce make it a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. With simple ingredients, layered flavors, and that irresistible aroma filling your kitchen, this stew is bound to become a family favorite.

Watch how to make this hearty and comforting stew