Name: The Best Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 40 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1-1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided; 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon canola oil; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons herbes de Provence; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups dry red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary, divided; 2 bay leaves; 3 cups cubed peeled potatoes; 3 cups coarsely chopped onions (about 2 large); 2 cups sliced carrots; 2 tablespoons cold water; 2 tablespoons balsamic or red wine vinegar; 1 cup fresh or frozen peas; Additional fresh rosemary, optional

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef stew is slow-simmered to perfection, creating a thick, flavorful sauce that clings to every bite of tender meat and vegetables. With the addition of herbes de Provence, rosemary, and a touch of balsamic vinegar, the flavors are deep, balanced, and wonderfully fragrant. It’s filling, wholesome, and designed to satisfy both family and guests alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1-1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon canola oil
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons herbes de Provence
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups dry red wine
2 cups beef broth
1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary, divided
2 bay leaves
3 cups cubed peeled potatoes
3 cups coarsely chopped onions (about 2 large)
2 cups sliced carrots
2 tablespoons cold water
2 tablespoons balsamic or red wine vinegar
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
Additional fresh rosemary, optional

Directions

Season beef cubes with 1/4 teaspoon salt, then toss with 3 tablespoons flour and smoked paprika.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches, then remove and set aside.
Stir in tomato paste, herbes de Provence, and garlic; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add beef broth and return beef to the pot. Stir in remaining rosemary, bay leaves, and remaining salt.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat for 1 hour.
Add potatoes, onions, and carrots. Cover and continue to simmer 30–40 minutes, until vegetables and beef are tender.
In a small bowl, mix remaining flour with cold water to create a slurry. Stir into stew to thicken slightly.
Add balsamic vinegar and peas, simmer 5 more minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Garnish with additional fresh rosemary, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours

Variations

Add parsnips or turnips for extra root vegetable depth.
Use boneless short ribs for a richer, more indulgent stew.
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.
For a slow-cooker version, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook 6–8 hours on low.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed. Stew also freezes well for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, flavors improve when made a day ahead. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I get the beef extra tender?

Simmer slowly over low heat or use a slow cooker to allow connective tissues to break down.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use cornstarch instead of flour for the slurry and ensure your tomato paste and broth are gluten-free.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Yes, but adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking softer vegetables.

What sides go well with beef stew?

Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.

Conclusion

The Best Beef Stew is a timeless, hearty dish that combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, aromatic sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s comforting, satisfying, and easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Slow-simmered and full of depth, this stew is a classic everyone will love.