Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes

Name: Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 medium carrots, sliced; 4 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 bay leaf

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish, Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is perfect for chilly evenings.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:49:28.327Z

This Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is not only filling but also packed with flavor. The tender beef combined with the sweetness of carrots and the heartiness of potatoes creates a dish that warms the soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors that deepen as they simmer
Comforting and nourishing, perfect for family dinners
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

A Classic Comfort Food

Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is a timeless dish that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. Its rich, savory flavors and tender chunks of beef create a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a cold day. The combination of hearty vegetables adds nutrition and texture, making it a well-rounded dish that satisfies all appetites. Whether served on a rainy evening or during a family gathering, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your household.

One of the wonderful aspects of this beef stew is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Swap out the carrots for parsnips, or use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones. This flexibility means you can enjoy a different variation of the stew each time you make it, keeping the meal exciting and fresh. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Beef stew is an ideal dish for meal prep enthusiasts. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator and freezes well, making it perfect for batch cooking. You can prepare a large pot on the weekend and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you have a wholesome meal ready in minutes. This makes busy weeknights much more manageable and helps you stick to your healthy eating goals.

Additionally, the flavors of beef stew deepen and improve over time, making it even more delicious the next day. So, if you can resist the temptation to eat it all at once, you’ll be rewarded with an even more flavorful dish for your future meals. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers to keep it fresh and tasty.

Cooking Tips for Success

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious beef stew:

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 medium carrots, sliced
4 medium potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 bay leaf

Make sure to prepare these ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious beef stew:

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Add the seared beef back to the pot along with the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty beef stew!

This stew is even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance!

Nutritional Benefits

Beef Stew With Carrots and Potatoes is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, supporting vision and immune function. Potatoes add fiber and potassium, both of which are important for digestive health and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

This dish can also be modified to fit various dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can use leaner cuts of beef or reduce the amount of oil used. Additionally, adding more vegetables like green beans or peas can enhance the nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor. This makes beef stew a great option for families looking to balance taste and health.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your beef stew, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread. This allows you to soak up the flavorful broth and adds a delightful crunch to your meal. A simple green salad can also be a refreshing side, providing a contrast to the hearty stew. Toss together some mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a balanced dinner.

For a cozy, comforting experience, serve the stew in individual bowls topped with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor. If you're feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of grated cheese on top can add creaminess that complements the rich stew beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken the stew by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and adding it to the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

→ What can I serve with beef stew?

Beef stew pairs well with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.