Description
If you’re searching for a cozy, soul-warming dinner idea that’s both hearty and deeply flavorful, this Hearty Beef & Mushroom Stew is your perfect go-to. Tender chunks of beef slow-simmered with earthy mushrooms, carrots, onions, and herbs, all swimming in a rich red wine broth—it’s the definition of a comforting, easy dinner. Ideal for cooler weather, meal prep, or anytime you’re craving a rustic, one-pot wonder, this stew pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or egg noodles. It’s a great make-ahead meal that only gets better with time and is fully freezer-friendly. Add this easy recipe to your list of dinner ideas or comfort food classics—you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, halved
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup dry red wine
3 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 sprig fresh rosemary
2 bay leaves
0.5 cup pearl onions or potatoes (optional)
Fresh parsley or rosemary, for garnish
Instructions
1. Pat beef cubes dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside.
2. In the same pot, add remaining olive oil, then sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
3. Stir in mushrooms and cook for 5 more minutes. Add tomato paste and flour, stir well, and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up browned bits. Simmer wine for 2–3 minutes.
5. Return beef to pot. Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
7. Remove bay leaves and rosemary. Add pearl onions or potatoes during the last 15 minutes if using.
8. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary. Serve hot.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, cook this stew a day in advance and let it rest overnight.
Substitute wine with more broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar if needed.
To thicken the stew more, add a cornstarch slurry during the last 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot / Stewing
- Cuisine: American / Rustic Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 435
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: hearty beef stew, beef mushroom stew, comfort food, dinner ideas, easy recipe