There’s nothing quite like a warm, savory bowl of beef stew to make a busy day feel cozy and satisfying. Packed with tender meat, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this classic dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or comforting family meals.
With this Easy beef stew recipe for busy days!, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of traditional beef stew without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready in under an hour, it’s a time-saving solution that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew Recipe
🥩 Tender, flavorful beef that melts in your mouth
🥕 Hearty vegetables for a complete meal in one pot
⏱️ Quick and easy — perfect for busy schedules
🍲 Flexible and customizable with your favorite herbs and spices
👨👩👧 Family-friendly — loved by kids and adults alike
This recipe is designed to save you time while delivering maximum comfort and flavor.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Stew
1.5 lbs (700g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup water
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional
1 cup frozen peas (added at the end)
1 tbsp flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season the beef with salt and pepper, then brown it on all sides for 4–5 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add chopped onions and celery. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Add carrots and potatoes to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until beef and vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
For a thicker stew, mix 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the simmering stew. Cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaf.
Add frozen peas if desired, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Beef Stew
Use the right cut of beef: Chuck roast or stew meat is ideal for tender, flavorful results.
Don’t rush browning: Browning the beef adds depth to the flavor.
Cut vegetables evenly: Ensures they cook at the same rate.
Simmer gently: Low and slow helps develop rich, comforting flavors.
Prep ahead: Brown the beef and chop vegetables in advance for even faster cooking on busy days.
Quick Variations
Red Wine Beef Stew: Add ½ cup red wine with the broth for richer flavor.
Vegetarian Stew: Replace beef with mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based version.
Spicy Beef Stew: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Storage and Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Conclusion
This Easy beef stew recipe for busy days! proves that comfort food doesn’t have to take hours. With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep solution, or cozy family meal, this beef stew delivers flavor, nutrition, and comfort in every bite.
Grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a steaming bowl of deliciousness — your busy day just got a lot cozier!