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There is something truly soul-warming about a classic stew simmered to perfection, and this Hearty Beef and Potato Stew Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Tender chunks of beef chuck meld seamlessly with baby potatoes, shallots, and a rich broth seasoned with smoked paprika, thyme, and a touch of brown sugar to create layers of complexity. Every spoonful delivers a comforting, satisfying taste that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a timeless favorite that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your table with nostalgic flavor.

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with a rich, reddish-brown stew. The stew has five whole yellow potatoes partially covered in a thick sauce. Surrounding the potatoes are several large pieces of brown meat, each coated with the same sauce, showing a slightly shiny texture. Small green herb pieces are scattered on the stew, adding a touch of color contrast. The sauce looks smooth with a slight oily shine on top, filling the bowl almost to the edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, essential ingredients form the backbone of this stew, each playing a unique role in building its savory flavor and hearty texture. From the earthy depth of beef broth to the subtle sweetness of shallots, these items come together harmoniously.

Olive oil (2 tbsp): Provides a healthy, fruity base for searing the beef and layering flavors.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps brown the meat beautifully to develop a deep flavor.
Beef chuck (2 ⅕ lb, trimmed and cut into chunks): The ideal cut for stew, tenderizing slowly and absorbing all those wonderful spices.
Salt (1 tsp): Essential for balancing and highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds a subtle heat and earthy sharpness.
Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Brings a smoky warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
Dried thyme (1 tsp): Infuses the stew with a subtle herbal note that feels fresh and comforting.
Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the acidity and adds a gentle hint of sweetness to the broth.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Offers pungency and aromatic complexity that elevates every bite.
Corn starch (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the stew for that luscious, hearty consistency.
Shallots (10, peeled): Sweet and delicate, they melt down beautifully to enrich the stew’s texture.
Low sodium soy sauce (1 tbsp): Adds umami depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Low sodium beef broth (4 cups): The liquid base that brings everything together in a savory embrace.
Double concentrated tomato paste (3 tbsp): Introduces rich tanginess and vibrant color to the stew.
Baby potatoes (13 oz): Tender and creamy, they soak up the flavors while adding substance to the dish.

How to Make Hearty Beef and Potato Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, peel the shallots carefully and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything prepped ensures a smoother cooking experience and helps the flavors build evenly as you go.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heating the olive oil and butter in a large pot until sizzling is the secret to a rich stew. Place the beef chunks in a single layer and let them sear undisturbed for 3 minutes so they form a beautiful golden-brown crust. Then stir and continue cooking until all sides boast that caramelized color, which locks in flavor and juices.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and brown sugar over the browned beef. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes, allowing those spices to bloom and coat each bite with seasoning.

Step 4: Thicken and Build Flavors

Add the cornstarch and stir well to incorporate it into the beef and spices. This step ensures the stew will have that perfect thick and velvety texture.

Step 5: Introduce Shallots and Soy Sauce

Toss in the peeled shallots and drizzle in the soy sauce to deepen the umami notes. Stir everything together, preparing the pot for the rich broth to come.

Step 6: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the low sodium beef broth and bring it to a boil. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium low, letting it gently simmer for 1 hour. This slow cooking softens the beef till tender and infuses the liquid with incredible flavor.

Step 7: Add Tomato Paste and Potatoes

After simmering, stir in the concentrated tomato paste and add the baby potatoes to the pot. Let the stew simmer an additional 30 minutes, or until the meat is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through perfectly. If the stew feels too thick, a splash of water will help get the consistency just right. Taste and adjust salt as necessary before calling it done.

How to Serve Hearty Beef and Potato Stew Recipe

Hearty Beef and Potato Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A swirl of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives adds a gorgeous pop of color and freshness against the rich stew base. You might also try a dollop of sour cream or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra layer of creaminess and bite.

Side Dishes

This stew shines best when paired with rustic country bread, perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a lovely crisp contrast, balancing the hearty textures nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the stew in individual deep bowls or rustic ramekins to make your presentation feel cozy and inviting. For a fun twist, you can hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the stew inside, creating an edible bowl that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftover Hearty Beef and Potato Stew Recipe into airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain its rich texture and to avoid ice crystals forming.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the stew. Avoid boiling to keep the beef tender and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

While beef chuck is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness, you can use other cuts like brisket or short ribs. Just be aware that cooking times and texture may vary slightly.

Is it okay to substitute baby potatoes with regular potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes work well too—just cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they cook at the same rate as the beef and shallots.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Follow the initial searing steps, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours until the beef and potatoes are tender and flavorful.

What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the stew?

Flour or arrowroot powder are good alternatives. If using flour, make a slurry with cold water before adding it to avoid lumps.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing and meal prep?

Definitely. This stew freezes well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a homemade Hearty Beef and Potato Stew Recipe that brings comfort, warmth, and joy to the table. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and share a little bit of love with those around you. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find it becoming your new go-to comfort meal!

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