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Classic Stovetop Beef Stew

Classic Stovetop Beef Stew

The ultimate comforting Sunday supper! This classic beef stew features melt in your mouth tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, glossy gravy; all made in one pot on the stovetop. Simple, foolproof, and deeply satisfying.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1.3 lbs beef chuck roast cut into 1.5 inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
  • 1 lb yellow onions about 2-3 large, diced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 4 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sweet or smoked paprika
  • 1 cup dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon
  • 1 ½ cups low sodium beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Pat the beef cubes very dry with paper towels. Season generously all over with salt and pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef until deeply browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Avoid crowding. Transfer browned beef to a plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes. Add the paprika and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  • Return the seared beef and any juices to the pot. Add the beef broth and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
  • Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight fitting lid and simmer gently for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
  • After 2.5 hours, check beef for tenderness (it should shred easily with a fork). If needed, simmer longer in 15 minute increments.
  • Once tender, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. For a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for the final 20-30 minutes.
  • Remove bay leaves. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Key to Flavor: Don't skip searing the beef or "blooming" the tomato paste. These steps build the stew's deep, rich base.
  • Make Ahead & Freeze: This stew tastes even better the next day and freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.
  • No Wine: Substitute with 1 cup of beef broth + 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar.