Dinner

Beef Stew with Potatoes

Name: Beef Stew with Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 2 bay leaves; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

ByMariem September 20, 2025

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This hearty beef stew features tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory gravy with potatoes and aromatic herbs. A comforting and filling one-pot dish perfect for colder days or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, satisfying flavor thanks to slow simmering and well-seasoned meat.
Includes both protein and starch—no need for additional sides.
Ideal for make-ahead meals or batch cooking.
Comfort food that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
Easy to customize with vegetables or seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Garlic
Onion
Fresh parsley
Egg (for binding the meatballs)
Breadcrumbs
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Beef broth or stock
Flour (to thicken the stew)
Potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
Bay leaf
Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Fresh herbs (e.g. thyme or rosemary)
Mushrooms (optional)

Directions

In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into small meatballs.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches and set them aside.
In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until softened. Add flour and cook briefly to create a roux.
Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Add bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs.
Return meatballs to the pot. Add peeled and chopped potatoes. Cover and simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Adjust seasoning to taste. Remove bay leaf and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6 people
Prep time: 15–20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

Add carrots, peas, or green beans to increase vegetable content.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Add red wine to the broth for deeper flavor.
Try sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slight sweetness.
Spice it up with smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne.

Storage / reheating

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the stew thickened too much.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made meatballs?

Yes, though homemade meatballs give the best flavor and texture. If using pre-made, add them after sautéing the onions and simmer as directed.

What are the best potatoes for this stew?

Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and absorb flavor without becoming mushy.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the meatballs and sauté the onions first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I thicken the stew without flour?

You can mash a few potatoes directly into the broth or use a cornstarch slurry.

What herbs pair well with beef stew?

Thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and parsley are classic choices. You can also add a pinch of sage or marjoram.

Can I add tomato paste or sauce?

Yes. A tablespoon of tomato paste can add depth to the broth. Sauté it briefly with the onions before adding liquid.

Can this be made ahead?

Absolutely. In fact, the flavors deepen after resting. It’s ideal for next-day meals.

Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave skins on if using thin-skinned varieties and prefer a rustic style.

Can I use stock instead of broth?

Yes, beef stock will add a richer taste. You can also mix broth and stock if desired.

Conclusion

This Beef Stew with Potatoes is the ultimate cold-weather comfort dish. The tender meatballs, rich gravy, and hearty potatoes create a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s an easy-to-make, family-friendly recipe that you’ll turn to time and again—especially when you need something warm and satisfying on the table.

Mariem