Beef Stew Recipe

This hearty red wine and herb beef stew is packed with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s a comforting dish full of depth, ideal for sharing with family or savoring leftovers the next day.

Few dishes embody comfort quite like a hearty beef stew. Imagine tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked to perfection in a savory broth infused with red wine, fresh herbs, and vibrant vegetables. This isn't just any stew—this is the kind that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings family and friends together around the table.

This red wine and herb beef stew promises deep, rich flavors that are layered and unforgettable. By the end of this recipe, you’ll have a dish so satisfying that it could steal the spotlight at any dinner. With simple steps, the right ingredients, and a bit of patience, you’ll create a meal worth sharing.

What Is Beef Stew?

Beef stew is a classic comfort food, renowned for its versatility and heartiness. At its core, it's a one-pot wonder that combines beef, vegetables, and seasonings, simmered slowly to build robust flavors.

This particular variation elevates the traditional recipe with red wine, which enhances the stew’s depth, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, adding an aromatic touch. The result? A beautifully balanced dish that’s both earthy and slightly tangy.

If you’re already a fan of classics like the Lamb Ragu D’Rose Mary or the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, you’ll love this dish. It strikes that perfect balance between elegant and hearty.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of red wine, herbs, and slow cooking builds complex flavors.
• Tender Beef: The slow simmer ensures melt-in-your-mouth meat every time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Like many stews, this one tastes even better the next day.
• Versatile: Perfect for cozy nights or a special weekend dinner.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s talk about the key ingredients that make this beef stew exceptional:

1. Beef Chuck

Beef chuck is the best cut for stews. It’s well-marbled, affordable, and becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking. Make sure to cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.

2. Red Wine

Red wine is what sets this recipe apart. Choose a dry variety like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine not only tenderizes the meat but also adds depth. Cooking with wine might remind you of recipes like Lombatello Steak, where bold flavors shine.

3. Vegetables

• Onions and Garlic: These form the flavor base.
• Carrots and Celery: Add sweetness and texture.
• Baby Potatoes: These soak up the broth beautifully, making every bite a delight.

4. Herbs and Spices

Fresh rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves are non-negotiable. Their aromatic oils release slowly during cooking, creating a savory depth.

5. Beef Stock

A good-quality beef stock acts as the backbone of the stew. Opt for low-sodium to control the seasoning.

6. Tomato Paste

Tomato paste adds a subtle tang and enriches the broth’s color and texture.

7. Olive Oil

Used for searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, olive oil builds layers of flavor. If you love recipes with a savory touch, try pairing this stew with Cunetto Garlic Cheese Bread for a perfect side.

How to Make Hearty Beef Stew

Step 1: Sear the Beef

• Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Sear the beef in batches until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor to the broth.

Step 2: Build the Base

• In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
• Add carrots and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato paste to intensify the flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze with Wine

• Pour in red wine and scrape up the browned bits from the pot. This step is crucial for a flavorful base.

Step 4: Add Broth and Herbs

• Add beef stock, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Return the beef to the pot.

Step 5: Slow Simmer

• Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Potatoes

• In the last 30 minutes, toss in the baby potatoes. They’ll absorb the flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Thicken the Broth

• If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 10 minutes.

Tips for Success

• Patience Pays Off: The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh herbs and a wine you’d enjoy drinking.
• Serve Warm: Pair it with crusty bread or Tippins Cornbread.

Hearty Red Wine and Herb Beef Stew

A rich and flavorful beef stew recipe, simmered to perfection with red wine, fresh herbs, and hearty vegetables. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 large carrots, sliced into chunks
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in tomato paste.
3. Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Add beef stock, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and the seared beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Add baby potatoes in the last 30 minutes of cooking. If a thicker stew is desired, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove herb sprigs and bay leaves before serving.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes.

20 minutes prep time with 120 minutes cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 375 calories per serving.

French, American / Dinner, Comfort Food

Rated 4.9 by 182 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: beef stew, red wine beef stew, hearty beef stew, beef recipes, dinner recipes, comfort food

Published by: Show Recipe