As the chilly air sets in and the leaves start to turn, I find myself craving something that warms both body and soul. That’s when I reach for a classic comfort dish: hearty beef stew with herb-roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli. Picture this: a bubbling pot of tender beef, slowly simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic broth, paired beautifully with crispy potatoes infused with fragrant herbs. And let’s not forget the vibrant green broccoli that adds a fresh, nutritious kick!
This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating that cozy feeling at home—like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after a long day. Whether you’re gathering with family or simply indulging in a quiet night in, this meal is sure to hit the spot. So roll up your sleeves, let’s dive into the process of making this wholesome, delicious stew that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
Comforting and Hearty: The warmth of this stew brings a sense of home, perfect for chilly nights.
Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with vegetables, this dish balances rich flavors with healthy ingredients.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, even novice cooks can master this classic recipe.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, making each dinner unique.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or a cozy gathering, everyone will leave satisfied.
Meal Prep Friendly: Refrigerate leftovers for quick lunches or freeze for future meals, ensuring deliciousness all week long!
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes Ingredients
For the Stew
- Beef Chuck – The primary protein that becomes tender with slow cooking.
- Onion – Use yellow or white onions for the best flavor depth.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the stew’s flavor; use about 4 cloves.
- Beef Broth – Provides the liquid base; either homemade or low-sodium store-bought works well.
- Red Wine – Adds richness; substitute with more beef broth for a non-alcoholic option.
- Tomato Paste – Thickens the stew and adds a subtle acidity.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth; consider liquid aminos for gluten-free.
- Dried Thyme – Infuses a warm, earthy flavor into the beef.
- Dried Rosemary – Complements the beef beautifully; adjust with fresh herbs if using.
- Paprika – Provides color and mild heat; smoked paprika adds a nice twist.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.
For the Potatoes
- Potatoes – Provides a starchy base; sweet potatoes can be a healthier substitution.
- Olive Oil – For tossing your potatoes before roasting; can switch to vegetable oil if preferred.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning your potatoes for that perfect roast.
For the Broccoli
- Broccoli Florets – Adds a fresh and vibrant element; substitute with green beans if desired.
- Water – For steaming the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp and bright green.
This delicious combination of beef with herb-roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli is designed to warm your soul! Enjoy crafting this comforting dish at home.
How to Make Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
Prepare Ingredients: Start by chopping the beef chuck into bite-sized pieces and dicing the potatoes and onions. Don’t forget to mince the garlic for that flavorful kick!
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Meat: Toss in the chopped beef and brown it for a few minutes on all sides. This step builds a rich flavor base for your stew!
Stir in Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and red wine, then mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is wonderfully tender. Patience is key for developing those deep flavors!
Roast Potatoes: While the stew simmers, prepare the potatoes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Steam Broccoli: In the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, steam the broccoli until vibrant and tender-crisp. Aim for that lovely bright green color!
Serve: Dish up generous portions of stew alongside the crispy herb-roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli. Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!
Optional: Top with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli ahead of time is a brilliant strategy for busy weeknights! You can pre-chop the vegetables, including potatoes and onions, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the beef can be cut and marinated with seasonings up to 24 hours before cooking to enhance flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy this hearty meal, simply sauté the prepped veggies, brown the beef, and continue with the recipe. The quality remains just as delicious, ensuring a warm, comforting dinner with minimal effort and time-saving benefits that make meal prep a breeze!
Expert Tips for Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for beef chuck, which becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking; avoid lean cuts that may toughen up.
- Sauté with Love: Ensure to sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant; this step elevates the overall flavor of your beef stew.
- Mind the Simmering: Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the stew to cook low and slow melds the flavors beautifully, creating depth in your hearty meal.
- Adjust for Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end to achieve your desired consistency without compromising taste.
- Roast to Perfection: For herb-roasted potatoes, remember to space them out on the baking sheet; overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, impacting that perfect crispiness.
- Season Thoughtfully: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference for the best flavor in your beef with herb-roasted potatoes.
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this heartwarming stew to suit your taste buds!
- Sweet Potato: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter, healthier twist that still delivers hearty satisfaction.
- Mushroom Medley: Replace beef with a mix of mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version, providing a rich umami flavor that’s simply delightful.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level while still celebrating the stew’s warmth.
- Root Vegetable Blend: Use a combination of carrots and parsnips instead of potatoes for an earthy sweetness that complements the beef beautifully.
- Wine-Free: If you prefer to cook without wine, simply double the beef broth for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.
- Fresh Herbs Upgrade: Try using fresh thyme and rosemary instead of dried for an invigorating burst of aroma, adjusting the quantity as needed.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream toward the end for a luscious, velvety texture that elevates the stew’s richness.
- Herb-Infused Oil: Drizzle some herb-infused oil over the finished dish; it adds a fragrant boost that enhances every savory spoonful of stew and potatoes.
How to Store and Freeze Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes
Fridge: Store beef stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This hearty beef stew freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Potato Storage: For leftover herb-roasted potatoes, store them separately in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for optimal crispiness.
What to Serve with Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli?
As the flavorful aromas waft through your kitchen, it’s time to create a delightful dining experience alongside your comforting beef stew.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping in the rich broth, a warm loaf elevates this meal with an irresistible crunch.
- House Salad: Crisp mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty stew beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Infused with buttery garlic goodness, this addictive side adds a touch of indulgence that complements every spoonful.
- Coleslaw: The creamy crunchiness of coleslaw provides a delightful texture while cutting through the stew’s richness.
Why not take it a step further? With the vibrant broccoli shining on your plate, a slice of lemon pie would serve as a lovely end, bringing brightness to your dinner.
- Red Wine: A glass of bold red pairs wonderfully, enhancing the stew’s flavors while bringing warmth to your evening.
- Steamed Green Beans: Adding a pop of color and crisp texture, steamed green beans contribute to the meal’s nutritional harmony.
- Quinoa: This nutty grain adds a wholesome touch, absorbing the savory juices of the stew while providing a healthy alternative to bread.
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for the stew?
Absolutely! Choosing beef chuck is essential for making this hearty beef stew as it becomes wonderfully tender after slow cooking. Tough cuts like chuck or brisket break down beautifully, infusing the stew with rich flavors. Avoid lean cuts, as they won’t have the same satisfying texture once cooked.
How do I properly store leftover beef stew?
After enjoying your delicious meal, you can store the beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to keep it fresh and delicious. If you’d like to save some for later, it freezes exceptionally well!
Can I freeze the beef stew? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the beef stew for up to 3 months. To do this, let the stew cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to label the bags with the date for easy reference. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
How can I prevent the stew from becoming too salty?
Very! To keep the stew from becoming overly salty, use low-sodium beef broth and avoid adding extra salt until the end of cooking. Taste your stew as it simmers, and adjust the seasoning gradually. If you find it too salty, you can add more liquid, like water or low-sodium broth, to dilute the saltiness slightly.
What should I do if the stew is too thin?
If the stew turns out thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! You can thicken it easily by making a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water (about 1 tablespoon of each) and stir it into the simmering stew. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This hearty beef stew can cater to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and use a certified gluten-free beef broth. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can replace the beef with mushrooms and add lentils for additional protein and texture. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe!
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the beef chuck into bite-sized pieces and dice the potatoes and onions. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Meat: Toss in the chopped beef and brown it for a few minutes on all sides.
- Stir in Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and red wine, then mix in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Roast Potatoes: Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes, until golden brown.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam the broccoli until vibrant and tender-crisp for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Dish up portions of stew with crispy herb-roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli. Enjoy!