Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew is like a warm hug on a cold day, embracing you with its rich flavors and hearty textures. Picture this: succulent chunks of beef, perfectly simmered until they melt in your mouth, surrounded by vibrant vegetables that add both color and crunch, all swimming in a velvety broth that warms your soul.
This dish brings back fond memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of beef stew would waft through the air, drawing us all in like moths to a flame. It’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings or family gatherings, promising an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory spices with tender meat and fresh vegetables.
- The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, bread, or even mashed potatoes!
Ingredients for Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled meat which will become tender as it cooks low and slow.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture; cut them into chunky pieces so they hold up during cooking.
- Potatoes: Use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes; they create a creamy texture when cooked.
- Onions: Sweet onions work best; they add depth and flavor to the stew.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch; chop them finely for maximum flavor.
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while still achieving rich flavor.
- Red Wine: A splash of red wine enhances the stew’s depth; choose a dry variety you enjoy drinking.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs deliver a fragrant aroma; dried thyme can be used if fresh isn’t available.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping your beef chuck roast into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. Chop your onions, carrots, and potatoes while you’re at it; get everything prepped before you start cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add some oil. Once hot, sear half of the beef until it’s nicely browned on all sides. This step adds incredible flavor to your stew.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add your chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent. Toss in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine
Pour in your red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up all those lovely brown bits stuck on the bottom. Let it simmer for about two minutes before adding back your browned beef.
Step 5: Add Broth and Veggies
Pour in your beef broth along with carrots and potatoes. Add thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Reduce heat to low and cover your pot. Let it simmer for at least one hour—patience is key here! Stir occasionally until the meat is fork-tender and veggies are soft.
Transfer to bowls and serve with crusty bread or over fluffy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal that’ll warm you from head to toe! Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew—it’s comfort food at its finest! For more inspiration, check out this cozy cabbage soup recipe.
You Must Know
- This Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.
- Simmering slowly, it fills your home with inviting aromas.
- Customize the ingredients based on your pantry while enjoying a hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or just a night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create a dreamy Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew, start by browning the beef in a hot pot. While it sizzles, chop your vegetables and get those flavors mingling. Add them after searing to lock in all that deliciousness!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes or toss in some green beans for extra crunch. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate your stew game. It’s all about making it your own!
Storing & Reheating
For leftovers, cool the stew completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth for that fresh taste!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use well-marbled beef cuts for a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Always season each layer of cooking; this builds depth of flavor throughout the dish.
- Let the stew rest before serving—this helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Sometimes I whip up this Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew when friends come over, and they always rave about how it takes them back to their grandma’s kitchen! It warms my heart every time!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
To make Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew, gather beef chuck, carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, and beef broth. You’ll also need tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and various herbs like thyme. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the flavor. This combination of ingredients creates a rich and hearty stew that warms you from the inside out. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further while adding aroma and taste. Consider preparing these ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.
How long does it take to cook Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Cooking Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew typically takes about two to three hours on the stove or in a slow cooker. If using a pressure cooker, you can cut this time down to around 45 minutes to an hour. The key is to allow enough time for the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Cooking at a low temperature allows the meat to break down properly while ensuring all ingredients are infused with rich flavors. For more inspiration, check out this slow cooker pot roast recipe.
Can I use different types of meat in my stew?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat in your Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew. While beef chuck is preferred for its tenderness after slow cooking, alternatives such as lamb or pork can also work well. Each type offers a unique flavor profile that can enhance your stew. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the meat used, so adjust accordingly for optimal tenderness.
What side dishes pair well with Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew?
Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Classic choices include crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the savory broth. Mashed potatoes or buttery noodles offer a comforting complement as well. delicious salad pairing A simple green salad adds freshness and texture to your meal without overpowering the stew’s rich flavors. unique pumpkin soup recipe savory butternut squash soup Consider serving roasted vegetables on the side for added nutrition and flavor balance.
Conclusion for Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew :
In summary, making a delicious Tender Old Fashioned one pot beef stew recipe, you ensure that each bowl is filled with warmth and comfort, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or cold nights at home. Enjoy this timeless recipe that brings everyone together!
Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew
Tender Old Fashioned Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This hearty dish features tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that warms the soul. With its nostalgic aroma and robust flavors, this stew will transport you back to cherished family kitchens. Serve it with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium carrots, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold), diced
- 2 medium sweet onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by chopping the beef and vegetables.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and brown half of the beef until seared on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent, then add minced garlic until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits.
- Return the beef to the pot; add broth, carrots, potatoes, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least one hour until meat is tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, season each layer as you cook. Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes or include green beans for added crunch. Allow leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container; they can last up to three days in the fridge or three months in the freezer.





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