If you are searching for a comforting and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe. It combines tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that simmers slowly to develop deep, satisfying flavors. With simple ingredients coming together effortlessly, this stew is a timeless classic that brings family and friends around the table for a truly memorable dining experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round white pot filled with browned, cooked meat chunks soaking in a small pool of brown juices, with the meat showing a mix of dark and light brown colors, some pieces having crispy edges and varied shapes and sizes, all sitting inside the pot that has slight brown stains inside near the sides, placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is what makes this Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe both accessible and incredibly delicious. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this stew irresistible.

3 pounds chuck roast, cubed: The ideal cut for slow cooking, providing tender, flavorful beef.
2 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt, separated: Enhances all the flavors, added in stages for depth.
1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper, separated: Adds just the right amount of spice throughout the stew.
1/4 cup avocado or canola oil: For searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, helps build the stew’s base flavor.
1 yellow onion, chopped: A sweet and savory foundation for the broth.
3 large carrots, sliced at a 1/2″ bias: Adds color and natural sweetness.
3 stalks celery, sliced at a 1/2″ bias: Brings crunch and an earthy undertone.
3 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses aromatic depth and warmth.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the stew to a luscious, stew-worthy consistency.
4 cups unsalted or low sodium beef broth: The liquid heart of the stew, rich and soulful.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds umami and a subtle tangy richness.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Balances flavors with a touch of acidity and sweetness.
12 ounces baby Dutch potatoes, quartered: Provide creamy texture and soak up the savory broth.
3 sprigs fresh thyme and rosemary: Aromatic herbs that layer in fragrant complexity.
1/2 cup frozen peas: Add a pop of bright color and mild sweetness, stirred in at the end.
1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional): Freshness and a lovely garnish to finish off the stew.

How to Make Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef

Start by placing those beautiful beef cubes into a mixing bowl. Drizzle with a tablespoon of oil and sprinkle with most of the salt and pepper. Massage everything into the meat to make sure each piece is well-coated—this step is key for building flavor right from the beginning. Then, preheat your oven and get that Dutch oven hot on the stove. Sear the meat in batches to achieve a perfect caramelized crust on all sides, which seals in juices and flavor, making every bite rich and tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

After removing the beef, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven. These create the essential flavor base for your stew. Sauté briefly to coat the veggies in the flavorful oil left from searing the meat, then cover and let them soften gently. Add the garlic last to avoid burning and to release its fragrant aroma. This stage is where the comforting aroma of home cooking really starts to bloom.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Sprinkle flour over the softened vegetables to create a roux that will thicken your stew. Slowly stir in the beef broth, adding it gradually to prevent lumps, and then fold in tomato paste and balsamic vinegar. The vinegar brightens and balances the richness, while the tomato paste brings a subtle depth of umami. Season with the remaining salt and pepper, stirring to combine everything seamlessly in one luscious broth.

Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook

Return the seared beef to the Dutch oven along with quartered baby Dutch potatoes and fresh herb sprigs. Cover tightly and place in the preheated oven to slow cook for a total of 2 1/2 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. This slow-and-low method allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender and the potatoes to soak in all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Final Touches

When the stew has cooked to perfection, stir in frozen peas and let the pot sit covered for about twenty minutes. This step warms the peas without overcooking, preserving their vibrant color and sweet bite. Finally, remove the herbs, sprinkle fresh parsley if you like, and get ready to serve a bowl full of comfort and love.

How to Serve Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe

The image shows a white round pot filled with a thick brown stew with visible chunks of tender dark brown meat, large pieces of yellow potato, orange carrot slices, green peas, and celery pieces mixed evenly throughout the stew. On top, there is a small bundle of fresh green herbs tied together with white string, lightly resting in the center. The edges of the pot have some stew stains, and the pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green that brightens the whole dish, both visually and in flavor. If you love a little extra kick, a few grinds of fresh black pepper just before serving can elevate the experience even more.

Side Dishes

This stew is hearty all on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls transforms it into a complete meal. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta also work beautifully, soaking up the luscious broth and complementing the tender beef and vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the stew in rustic bowls with a ladle of the vibrant broth, garnished individually. You can also scoop the stew over rice or even inside a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun twist that’s sure to impress and delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe tastes even better the next day, giving the flavors time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making an easy meal ready to warm up during a busy week.

Freezing

The stew freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to retain its perfect texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can refresh the consistency if it thickened too much. Avoid microwaving to preserve the stew’s hearty texture and even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?

While chuck roast is the classic choice due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or short ribs if you prefer. Just make sure to cut the pieces into uniform cubes for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this stew on the stovetop instead of the oven?

Absolutely! After searing and building your broth, you can simmer everything on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours on the stove, covered, until the beef is tender. Just keep an eye on the liquid levels and stir occasionally.

Can I make this stew ahead of time and reheat it for a gathering?

Definitely. In fact, making this Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe a day in advance helps the flavors meld beautifully. Reheat it slowly on the stove just before serving to bring it back to its luscious best.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To keep it gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Add the cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking to avoid clumping.

What’s the best way to ensure tender beef in this stew?

Low and slow cooking is the secret. Using a Dutch oven in the oven at 325°F allows the connective tissues to break down gently, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth beef. Make sure to brown the meat properly to lock in juices before slow cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Dutch Oven Classic Beef Stew Recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of home cooking. Whether you’re feeding family or cozying up solo, this stew offers comfort and satisfaction in every bowl. So grab your Dutch oven, gather your ingredients, and dive into a timeless classic that fills your kitchen and heart with warmth.