Hearty Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes

Instructions: How to Make Hearty Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes

1. Brown the Beef:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides until it’s well-seared and deeply caramelized. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant. This step builds a rich base of flavor for the stew.

3. Deglaze the Pot:

Add a splash of water or beef broth to the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor, and deglazing helps incorporate them into the stew.

4. Add the Beef and Broth:

Return the browned beef to the pot, and add the beef broth, water, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

5. Simmer the Stew:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. The beef will become tender, and the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

6. Add the Vegetables:

After the beef has cooked and tenderized, add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the stew. Continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

7. Thicken the Stew (Optional):

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can use a slurry made with flour and water. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Gradually stir this into the stew and cook for another 10 minutes to allow it to thicken. Alternatively, you can mash some of the vegetables directly in the pot to thicken the stew naturally.

8. Finish the Stew:

Add the frozen peas (if using) and season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a richer flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter at this point for extra creaminess and depth.

9. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

While the stew is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes. In a large pot, place the peeled and cubed potatoes, and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

10. Mash the Potatoes:

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy. For extra flavor, you can add chopped chives or parsley.

11. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the hearty beef stew over a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes. Ladle the stew over the potatoes, ensuring each bite is loaded with tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.

Tips for the Best Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes

• Use the Right Cut of Beef: For the most tender and flavorful stew, use a cut of beef that’s ideal for slow cooking, such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts become tender over time and infuse the stew with rich flavor.
• Customize the Vegetables: While carrots, potatoes, and celery are the traditional choices, feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic.
• Thicken the Stew to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker stew, add more flour or mash some of the cooked vegetables. Alternatively, you can skip the flour and let the stew naturally thicken as it simmers.
• Make It Ahead: This beef stew can be made a day or two ahead of time, as the flavors often improve with time. Store the stew in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: Beef stew freezes well, so you can make a large batch and save some for later. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Why This Dish Is Perfect for Any Occasion

Hearty Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in. The stew is rich, filling, and flavorful, while the mashed potatoes offer a smooth and creamy counterpart that complements the savory beef and vegetables. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening with loved ones, this dish will bring everyone together and leave everyone feeling satisfied.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a bowl of Hearty Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes—the tender beef, savory vegetables, and rich gravy combine to create a meal that’s comforting and filling. Whether you’re looking for a meal to enjoy on a cold winter’s night or simply want to treat yourself to something hearty and satisfying, this classic recipe won’t disappoint. So, gather your ingredients, let the stew simmer, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that brings comfort with every bite.