Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting beef stew, perfect for cold days, featuring tender beef, baby potatoes, and sweet carrots.

Sophie Adams

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:10:58.449Z

This Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender and the flavors meld beautifully, making it a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, savory flavors that warm the soul
  • Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
  • Hearty vegetables that add nutrition and flavor

Perfect for Any Occasion

This beef stew is not only a fantastic choice for chilly evenings but also an ideal dish for family gatherings and potlucks. Its comforting flavors appeal to both adults and children, making it a versatile option for any event. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth creates a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

With minimal prep time and the ability to simmer away while you attend to other tasks, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Simply gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the stew do the work. The aroma that fills your home while it cooks is an added bonus that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.

Customizable Ingredients

One of the best aspects of this beef stew is its adaptability. While the classic combination of baby potatoes and carrots is delicious, feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on your personal preferences. Consider adding peas, green beans, or even parsnips for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.

Additionally, if you prefer a different protein, this recipe can easily be adapted using chicken or turkey. Simply adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful. This flexibility makes the stew a fantastic base recipe that you can modify to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers from this hearty beef stew can be a delightful treat for the following days. Store any remaining stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, often making it even tastier the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the stew has thickened.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  • 3 large carrots, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Steps

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Add the baby potatoes, carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious beef stew!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this beef stew with a side of crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the rich broth. A fresh green salad can also complement the meal, adding a light and refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the stew. Consider a simple vinaigrette to enhance the salad without overpowering the main dish.

If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving can elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese can also bring a delightful creaminess to each bowl, enhancing the overall experience.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond its deliciousness, this beef stew offers various nutritional benefits. The beef provides a great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are important for maintaining energy levels and supporting immune function. The blend of vegetables not only adds flavor but also contributes vitamins and minerals, making this dish a wholesome choice.

Carrots are particularly rich in beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health, while potatoes offer a good source of potassium and fiber. This stew is not just a comforting meal; it’s also a balanced option that can help you and your family meet your daily nutritional needs.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is best for stews due to its tenderness after cooking.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the beef, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Beef Stew With Baby Potatoes and Carrots

A hearty and comforting beef stew, perfect for cold days, featuring tender beef, baby potatoes, and sweet carrots.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration120 minutes
Overall Time140 minutes

Created by: Sophie Adams

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
  2. 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  3. 3 large carrots, sliced
  4. 1 onion, chopped
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 4 cups beef broth
  7. 2 tbsp tomato paste
  8. 1 tsp dried thyme
  9. 1 tsp dried rosemary
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. 2 tbsp olive oil

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 02

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Step 03

Return the beef to the pot. Add the baby potatoes, carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Step 05

Once the stew is ready, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 35g