Hearty Homemade Beef Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Red Wine Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, bubbling pot of stew on a crisp day, and this Hearty Homemade Beef Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Red Wine Recipe delivers exactly that cozy feeling in every spoonful. Rich chunks of tender beef, earthy potatoes, sweet carrots, and the deep complexity from a splash of red wine make it a classic that brings family and friends right to the table. Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or something to impress guests with a homey touch, this recipe will soon become a favorite you’ll turn to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe has a starring role, carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and create the perfect stew texture and color. From the silky richness of olive oil to the hearty vegetables and savory seasonings, everything is straightforward but essential.

• 2 pounds cubed beef chuck or beef stewing meat: Choose well-marbled beef for juicy, tender results after slow cooking.
• Flour (for dredging): Helps develop a beautiful crust on the beef and thickens the stew slightly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more as needed): For searing the beef and sautéing vegetables, adding richness.
• 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the stew base.
• 3 sticks celery (chopped): Brings freshness and subtle crunch which softens during cooking.
• 6 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the stew with warm, inviting aromatic flavor.
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste: Concentrates the savory tang and dark color.
• 1 cup dry red wine: Lends complexity and a gentle acidity to balance richness.
• 3 cups beef broth: The hearty liquid base soaking everything in cozy goodness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami punch that elevates the flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that ties ingredients together.
• 3 bay leaves: Infuse a gentle earthiness as the stew simmers slowly.
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled & diced): Creamy and buttery, perfect for soaking up the stew juices.
• 4 medium carrots (peeled & sliced fairly thick): Sweetness and vibrant color that hold up well in long cooking.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional): Adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness at the end.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Hearty Homemade Beef Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Red Wine Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by getting everything ready—peel and slice those potatoes and carrots just before you add them to keep their texture fresh. This simple prep step truly sets the stage for a stew that cooks evenly and tastes vibrant.

Step 2: Coat and Dredge the Beef

Lightly dust the beef cubes in flour and shake off any excess. This step is key because it helps the beef develop a gorgeous browned crust that locks in juices and thickens the stew later on.

Step 3: Sear the Beef in Batches

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high in your Dutch oven or heavy pot, then brown the beef cubes in batches so they don’t crowd the pan. Resist the urge to stir too soon—it’s best to let the beef sit and develop a deep, caramelized crust before turning. Transfer browned beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

If the pot looks dry, add a little more olive oil, then toss in the chopped onions and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. These veggies build the stew’s flavorful foundation and add lovely texture beneath the rich meat.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the tomato paste darkens slightly and becomes aromatic. This step brings a depth of umami and enhances the stew’s rich color.

Step 6: Deglaze with Red Wine and Broth

Pour in the dry red wine, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift all those delicious browned bits. This process infuses your stew with layers of bold flavor and a silky finish.

Step 7: Simmer with Seasonings and Beef

Return the beef and any accumulated juices back into the pot, then stir in Italian seasoning and bay leaves. Bring everything up to a gentle boil before covering and reducing to a simmer for one hour. Stir occasionally and adjust heat to maintain a low simmer that cooks the beef to tender, melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Step 8: Add Potatoes and Carrots

After the initial long simmer, toss in your diced potatoes and thick-cut carrots. Cover and simmer for another hour or until the vegetables and meat are all tender. This slow, gentle cooking melds the flavors beautifully without breaking down the veggies too much.

Step 9: Finish with Peas and Season

Remove the bay leaves, stir in frozen peas, and let them warm through for a few minutes. Finish by adjusting salt and pepper to taste—this simple seasoning adjustment is what truly makes the flavors pop and feel balanced.

How to Serve Hearty Homemade Beef Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Red Wine Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme add a fresh burst of color and herbaceous notes that elevate each spoonful. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add richness and creaminess for an extra special touch.

Side Dishes

Serve this stew alongside crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every precious drop of the savory sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also bring brightness to the meal, balancing the hearty stew with some crisp freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy presentation, dish the stew directly into rustic bowls and top with chopped green onions or crispy fried shallots for texture contrast. You can also serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles if you want to try a comforting twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to preserve those rich, meaty flavors and tender textures. Leftovers often taste even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to mingle.

Freezing

Hearty Homemade Beef Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Red Wine Recipe freezes well—just portion it into freezer-safe containers and label with the date. It will keep for up to 3 months and makes a fantastic ready-to-go meal for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until just warmed through to avoid overcooking the tender meat and vegetables. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway for even temperature.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?

While beef chuck or stewing beef works best because of its marbling and ability to become tender with long cooking, you can substitute with lamb or even pork shoulder if you want a twist, but expect slightly different flavors and textures.

Is red wine necessary for the recipe?

The red wine adds a lovely depth and slight acidity that balances the richness of the beef, but if you prefer to skip alcohol, you can replace it with additional beef broth or a splash of grape juice mixed with a bit of vinegar.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics on the stove, transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the liquids and seasonings, and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until meat and vegetables are tender.

What’s the best type of potato for this stew?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and offer a buttery texture. Russets can work but tend to break down into the stew more, creating more of a thickened broth than distinct chunks.

How can I thicken the stew if I want it heartier?

If your stew feels a bit thin, remove a ladle of liquid, mix it with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch, then stir it back into the pot and cook for a few more minutes until thickened. Be careful not to over-thicken, as you want to keep that lovely stew consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so deeply satisfying about the rich flavors and tender bites in this Hearty Homemade Beef Stew with Potatoes, Carrots, and Red Wine Recipe. It’s the perfect meal for bringing warmth and comfort to any table. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll discover why it’s such a beloved classic that brings smiles and full hearts every time.

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