Beef and Root Vegetable Stew Recipe for Cozy Dinners

There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty beef and root vegetable stew. This classic dish combines tender chunks of beef with an assortment of earthy root vegetables, simmered slowly to meld flavors and create a rich, warming meal perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or trying your hand at stewing for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. The slow cooking process breaks down the beef into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness while the vegetables soak up all the savory juices, resulting in a stew that’s both nourishing and soul-satisfying.

In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to make the perfect beef and root vegetable stew—from the freshest, most essential ingredients to tips on how to customize it to your taste. Plus, I’ll share some handy serving suggestions and nutritional insights, so you can enjoy this dish with confidence and delight.

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and root vegetable stew is a timeless comfort food that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The slow simmering method ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender, while the root vegetables add natural sweetness and heartiness to the dish.

It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Additionally, this stew is highly versatile—you can swap in your favorite root vegetables or add herbs and spices to suit your palate. It also reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

If you appreciate dishes that are both nutritious and deeply satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into chunks
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped into chunks
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 small turnip, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp kitchen knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for flour, if thickening)
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: slow cooker or pressure cooker (for alternative cooking methods)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels to ensure good browning. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the meat: Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove browned beef and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add tomato paste and herbs: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Cook for 2 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in about 1 cup of beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the remaining broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Simmer the stew: Let the stew simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally and check liquid levels, adding more broth or water if needed.
7. Add root vegetables: Add the carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and turnip to the pot. Continue simmering for another 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
8. Thicken the stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
9. Season and finish: Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra depth of flavor, try marinating the beef in red wine and garlic a few hours before cooking. Adding a splash of red wine to the stew during the deglazing step also enhances richness.

If you want to switch up the vegetables, sweet potatoes, rutabagas, or celery root make excellent substitutions or additions. For a slightly spicy twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chilli powder.

For busy days, you can prepare this stew in a slow cooker by browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics first, then transferring everything to the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Looking for vegetarian comfort food inspiration? Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore hearty 15 Bean Soup Slow Cooker Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious for plant-based warmth.

Nutrition Facts

*Nutrition facts are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This stew shines on its own as a satisfying main course, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Serve with:

• Crusty bread or freshly baked rolls to soak up the rich broth.
• Buttery mashed potatoes for an indulgent, creamy side.
• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the stew’s richness.
• For a lighter option, steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add a fresh crunch.

If you enjoy exploring new flavors, you might also appreciate our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for wholesome meal ideas that pair well with hearty stews.

Conclusion

Making a beef and root vegetable stew is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your table with nourishing comfort. This recipe’s simplicity and flexibility make it a fantastic go-to for family dinners or special occasions when you want a home-cooked meal that feels like a warm hug.

The combination of tender beef and sweet, earthy vegetables simmered in a fragrant broth is timeless and sure to please even picky eaters.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll master a stew that’s both delicious and wholesome. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite vegetables and herbs, and enjoy the process as much as the final dish. For more hearty recipes and cooking inspiration, be sure to visit our other pages, including Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

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