I can’t take credit for this recipe. My parents made it as far back as I can remember. It’s one of my all-time favorites, and I’m in the mood for it year-round. Although with as cold as it’s been, it’s definitely ideal right now! My husband and I have a running debate. He grew up eating Beef Stew as well, but his parents’ version included no tomato sauce. The first time I made mine, he asked why it looked reddish. Now I’m not saying there’s a right way or a wrong way to make beef stew (or really any recipe), but I personally love tomato sauce in my stew! Not only does it help thicken the broth, but it boosts the flavor and increases the richness.

For this Easy Beef Stew recipe you’ll need: olive oil, beef, flour, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, bay leaf, carrots, potatoes, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to throw in any other veggies you’d like!

What kind of beef?

I typically buy “stew meat,” which is basically a roast that is already cut up by the butcher into small pieces, thereby cutting down on your prep time! I do typically cut it into even smaller bite-sized pieces, but I’ll leave that up to you.

You can also use chuck (shoulder), top, bottom, etc.

You’ll start by tossing the beef with some flour. This helps thicken the broth to give it a more “stew” like consistency as opposed to soup. Brown in some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Browning the meat allows it to be more tender and gives the stew a richer taste.

Add onions and stir into the meat. Cook for about 5 minutes. Then add garlic, stir, and cook a couple more minutes. Stir in beef broth and tomato sauce and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to a simmer and toss in your spices and bay leaf, stirring well. Add your carrots and potatoes too. Cook over low heat at a simmer for 1½ hours.

Toss in some fresh cilantro right before serving. Adjust the spices however you’d like.

Store this stew in your fridge for up to four days. It heats up great for leftovers! You can also freeze it for about 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bags.

I promise this beef stew will keep you nice and toasty! Enjoy!