Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and delicious? This Rustic Beef Stew with creamy mashed potatoes is slow-cooked to perfection, making it the ultimate homemade comfort food.
Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, and meal prep, this rich and flavorful beef stew pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes and crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender, juicy beef slow-cooked for maximum flavor Rich, savory gravy infused with herbs and red wine Perfectly creamy mashed potatoes as the ultimate side dish One-pot meal for easy cleanup Meal-prep & freezer-friendly for busy schedules
Whether you’re looking for the best beef stew recipe or a comforting winter meal, this dish is a must-try!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into large chunks (best for slow cooking)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (helps thicken the stew)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (adds richness)
- 1 cup red wine (optional, enhances depth of flavor)
- 4 cups beef broth (use low-sodium for control)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp butter (for a velvety finish)
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled & cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream (makes them ultra-creamy)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For Garnish & Serving:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty artisanal bread rolls
- A glass of red wine
(optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Pat the beef chunks dry, then season with salt, black pepper, and flour.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to bring out its sweetness.
Step 3: Deglaze & Simmer
- Pour in red wine (if using), scraping up the browned bits for extra flavor.
- Let it reduce slightly, then add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Return the seared beef to the pot.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Stew
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
- Alternatively, cook in a 300°F (150°C) oven for the same duration.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in carrots and baby potatoes and cook for another 30 minutes until tender.
- Stir in butter for a silky, rich finish.
- Taste & adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Make the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash with heavy cream, butter, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
How to Serve Your Beef Stew
- Ladle the rich beef stew into a rustic wooden bowl.
- Add a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread rolls.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for the perfect gourmet experience.
Enjoy your ultimate comfort food feast! 
Expert Tips for Perfect Beef Stew
Choose the right cut: Beef chuck is best for tenderness. Simmer low & slow: The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor. Make it ahead: Tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Sear the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
What’s the Best Wine for Beef Stew?
A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir works best. If you prefer alcohol-free, simply use extra beef broth.
Can I Freeze Beef Stew?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Cozy Meal!
This Rustic Beef Stew with Creamy Mashed Potatoes is rich, hearty, and full of deep flavors. Whether it’s a chilly night or you need a comforting, homemade meal, this one-pot dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
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