A soul-warming, rustic beef stew packed with tender chunks of beef, buttery potatoes, sweet carrots, and onions—all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth until melt-in-your-mouth perfection. This classic comfort food is ideal for chilly evenings, Sunday dinners, or anytime you crave a nourishing, hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pot beef stew is as comforting as it is convenient. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a foolproof recipe that requires only a bit of patience while it simmers to tender perfection. The combination of slow-cooked beef, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a deep, robust flavor that tastes even better the next day. It’s a complete, satisfying meal all in one pot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• olive oil
• beef chuck, cut into chunks
• salt and pepper
• yellow onion, chopped
• garlic, minced
• tomato paste
• beef broth
• diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Worcestershire sauce
• fresh thyme (or dried)
• smoked paprika
• carrots, chopped
• Yukon gold potatoes, halved
• bay leaves

Directions

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned. Set the beef aside.
2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Return the seared beef to the pot, then add the chopped carrots, halved potatoes, and bay leaves.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let cook for about 2 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
6. Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, preferably with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for an even heartier meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Add red wine to the broth for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon gold for a slightly sweeter profile.
• Stir in peas or green beans during the last 15 minutes for extra vegetables.
• Add mushrooms for a more earthy, savory stew.
• Make it spicy with a pinch of crushed red pepper or cayenne.

Storage/Reheating

Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the stew thickened in the fridge.
The stew also freezes well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is the best cut of beef for stew?

Beef chuck is ideal for stewing as it becomes tender and flavorful with long, slow cooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sear the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors improve after resting, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.

How do I thicken the stew?

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few of the cooked potatoes into the broth or mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, red potatoes or russets will also work, though russets may break down more in the stew.

What herbs can I substitute for thyme?

Rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning can be used in place of thyme for a different herbal note.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are preferred for texture, but canned tomatoes work well. Avoid canned carrots or potatoes as they may become mushy.

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

Can I add barley or pasta?

You can stir in cooked barley or pasta at the end of cooking, but avoid adding uncooked grains directly to the stew as they may absorb too much liquid.

What can I serve with beef stew?

Crusty bread, buttered noodles, or a simple green salad pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.

Conclusion

Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew is a timeless, crowd-pleasing meal that brings comfort with every spoonful. Its tender meat, rich broth, and wholesome vegetables make it a complete dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or meal prep. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this stew is bound to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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