Cozy Dutch Oven Beef Stew: A Heartwarming Delight

Introduction: Cozy Up with Comfort in a Bowl

When the temperature dips, there’s nothing better than a hearty bowl of beef stew to warm you from the inside out. Imagine a pot filled with tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked veggies, and a rich, flavorful gravy that’s begging to be mopped up with bread. This Dutch oven beef stew recipe is so comforting, you might just feel like you’re getting a warm hug from the inside.

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Ready to dive in? Let’s make magic happen!

What You’ll Need:

• 3 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup red wine (or beef broth)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 dried bay leaves
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: Frozen or fresh peas for extra veggie goodness

Directions: Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Get Things Heated: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Season your beef chunks with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over high heat. Brown the beef in batches (don’t overcrowd!), getting that deep, caramelized crust on each piece. Remove and set aside.
2. Flavor Explosion: In the same pot (don’t you dare clean it!), lower the heat to medium and sauté the onion, garlic, and carrots. Once they’re soft and smelling heavenly, stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
3. Wine and Dine: Pour in the red wine (or broth if you’re skipping the vino) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Let it reduce for about 3 minutes.
4. Thicken It Up: Stir in the flour, coating the veggies, then gradually add the beef broth while stirring. Watch it transform into a smooth, luxurious gravy.
5. Bring It All Together: Add back the beef, toss in the diced potatoes, and drop in the bay leaves. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer.
6. Oven Time: Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes. This is when the magic happens – the beef turns super tender, and the flavors meld into a beautiful harmony.
7. Finishing Touches: Stir in fresh parsley before serving. If you want to add peas, toss them in 10 minutes before the cooking time is up.

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Side Dish Ideas: Because Stew Needs Friends

• Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Because gravy was meant to be soaked up.
• Crispy Dinner Rolls: Perfect for dunking.
• Roasted Green Beans: Add some greens to the mix for balance (and color).

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 651 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 49g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 156mg
• Sodium: 1452mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Vitamin A: 5231 IU
• Vitamin C: 27mg
• Iron: 7mg

Prep & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 happy bellies

Conclusion: Warm, Cozy, and Oh-So Delicious

This Dutch oven beef stew isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up in a blanket and savor every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this stew hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s even better the next day when the flavors get even richer. So grab a spoon, dig in, and let this cozy classic warm you up from the inside out!