Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

A Comforting Classic for Any Occasion

When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of beef and mushroom stew. This recipe is a true classic, combining tender chunks of beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this stew is guaranteed to impress.

Not only is this dish incredibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make. With just a little preparation, you can create a hearty meal that tastes like it simmered on the stove all day. Let’s dive into what makes this beef and mushroom stew a go-to favorite and how you can make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. The instructions are easy to follow, and the ingredients are pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
  • Versatile and Customizable: You can adapt this stew to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Love more vegetables? Toss in some potatoes or parsnips. Prefer chicken over beef? Swap it out for a lighter twist.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. It stores beautifully and reheats like a dream.
  • Comfort in a Bowl: Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food like a rich, savory stew. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or a hearty Sunday dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this irresistible beef and mushroom stew:

For the Stew:

  • 3 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 pound beef stew meat
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • ½ cup diced carrots
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 5–6 sprigs fresh thyme (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 pound mushrooms, sliced

For Serving:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • Slotted spoon
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the bacon into small pieces and slicing the mushrooms. In a small bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the flour, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. This coating not only enhances flavor but also helps to thicken the stew.

2. Cook the Bacon

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. This flavorful fat will serve as the base for searing the beef and cooking the vegetables.

3. Sear the Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the flour-coated beef to the pot in batches. Sear the meat on all sides until it’s browned and caramelized. Don’t overcrowd the pot; working in batches ensures even cooking. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside with the bacon.

4. Build the Flavor Base

Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor.

5. Simmer the Stew

Return the seared beef and bacon to the pot, along with the thyme and bay leaf. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the stew simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the Mushrooms

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the sliced mushrooms. Let them simmer with the stew until they’re tender and infused with the rich flavors of the broth.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the stew is done, discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs (if using fresh thyme). Serve the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Recipe Variations and Tips

  • Add More Vegetables: For extra heartiness, add diced potatoes, parsnips, or celery.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  • Wine Infusion: Add ½ cup of red wine to the stew for an extra layer of depth and complexity.
  • Slow Cooker Option: After searing the beef and preparing the base, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This stew is perfect for making ahead and storing. Simply let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

Food and Drink Pairings

  • Side Dish: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
  • Beverage: Pair the stew with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a dark ale for a perfectly balanced meal.
  • Dessert: Finish the meal with a light dessert like apple crisp or vanilla panna cotta.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, you can, but you’ll miss out on the rendered fat, which adds depth to the dish. If using pre-cooked bacon, substitute with a tablespoon of olive oil or butter for sautéing.

How do I know when the beef is tender?
The beef is ready when it easily breaks apart with a fork. If it’s still tough, let it simmer longer.

Can I freeze the stew with the mushrooms?
Absolutely! The mushrooms will hold up well during freezing and reheating.

Final Thoughts

This beef and mushroom stew is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, it’s a meal that warms the soul. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and if you love it, subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!

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