Dutch Oven Beef Stew Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, so… have you ever craved something warm, cozy, and full of flavor? Yeah, me too. That’s when I reach for my trusty Dutch oven and whip up this beef stew.

It’s got chunks of tender beef, soft veggies, and a broth that’s just… wow. Every time I make it, the smell fills the house. It’s like a hug in a bowl.

What I love most? It’s simple. Like, really simple. Just toss it all in, let it cook low and slow, and boom—dinner magic.

So if you’re ready to make something easy, hearty, and super yummy, come along with me. Let’s make Dutch Oven Beef Stew together. You’re gonna love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unbeatable Flavor: Slow-cooked beef, aromatic herbs, and a deep, savory broth create the perfect balance of richness and warmth.
• One-Pot Wonder: Made entirely in a Dutch oven, meaning fewer dishes and easier cleanup.
• Tender, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Cooking low and slow ensures the beef is fork-tender.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap or add veggies to make it your own.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
• Total Time: About 3.5 hours

Servings

This recipe makes about 6 servings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Difficulty

Easy to moderate—great for beginners but rewarding for seasoned home cooks.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven (5-6 quarts) – Ensures even heat distribution for perfect slow-cooking.
• Cutting board & sharp knife – For chopping vegetables and slicing the beef.
• Tongs – Makes browning the beef easier.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring and scraping up flavorful bits.
• Measuring cups & spoons – For precise ingredient portions.

Ingredients for Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting, flavor-packed dish:

• Beef Chuck Roast (2.5 lbs): Cut into 1.5-inch chunks for a tender, rich texture.
• All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup): Lightly coats the beef for better browning and thickens the stew.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• Yellow Onion (1 large, diced): Adds depth and sweetness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall savory flavor.
• Carrots (3 large, sliced into thick rounds): Bring a natural sweetness to the stew.
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Adds freshness and texture.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes (4 medium, cubed): Hold their shape well and soak up the flavorful broth.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps thicken the sauce.
• Red Wine (½ cup, optional): Deepens the stew’s flavor and tenderizes the beef.
• Beef Broth (4 cups, low sodium): Forms the base of the stew, providing richness.
• Fresh Thyme (1 tsp, or ½ tsp dried): Infuses the stew with earthy, aromatic notes.
• Bay Leaf (1 large): Enhances the slow-cooked flavors.
• Salt (1½ tsp, or to taste): Brings out all the flavors.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp, or to taste): Adds a subtle heat and depth.

Variations for Dutch Oven Beef Stew

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms for extra umami.
• Swap Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-rich twist.
• Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
• Thicken the Stew: Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) at the end.
• Make it Wine-Free: Simply replace the red wine with additional beef broth.

How to Make Dutch Oven Beef Stew – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• Pat the beef chunks dry with a paper towel—this helps them brown better.
• Toss the beef with ¼ cup flour, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Shake off any excess.
• Season the beef with salt and black pepper to enhance its flavor.

2. Sear the Beef

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
• Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning until all sides are browned.
• Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

• In the same Dutch oven, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until softened.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, letting it caramelize slightly.

4. Deglaze the Pot

• Pour in ½ cup red wine (optional) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to concentrate.

5. Build the Stew Base

• Return the seared beef to the Dutch oven.
• Add 4 cups low-sodium beef broth and stir everything together.
• Drop in 1 bay leaf and 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme) for extra depth.

6. Simmer the Stew

• Bring the stew to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat.
• Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

7. Add the Vegetables

• After 1.5 to 2 hours of simmering, remove the lid and stir the stew.
• Add sliced carrots, chopped celery, and cubed potatoes to the Dutch oven.
• Stir everything together, making sure the vegetables are submerged in the broth.

8. Final Simmer

• Cover the Dutch oven again and let the stew cook for another 30-40 minutes on low heat.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy, and the beef should be fork-tender.

9. Adjust Seasoning and Thickness

• Taste the stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• If the broth is too thin, remove ½ cup of broth, mix it with 1 tbsp cornstarch, and stir it back into the stew. Let it simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to thicken.

10. Remove Bay Leaf and Serve

• Before serving, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
• Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or chopped parsley.

How to Serve Dutch Oven Beef Stew

This rich, hearty stew is best enjoyed with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve the stew over creamy mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
• Rice or Egg Noodles: A great alternative if you prefer a lighter meal.

Storing and Reheating Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Refrigeration

• Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze in individual portions or a large container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully reheated.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for 1-2 hours, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Brown the beef well: This step adds deep, rich flavor to the stew. Don’t rush it!
• Use a Dutch oven: Its heavy lid and thick walls help cook the stew evenly.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Add them later to keep them from becoming mushy.
• Let it rest: Allow the stew to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
• Make it ahead: The flavors develop even more overnight, making this an ideal meal-prep recipe.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	390
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	5g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	90mg
Sodium	700mg

(Values may vary based on ingredient substitutions.)

Dutch Oven Beef Stew FAQs

Can I make this stew without a Dutch oven?

Yes! Use a heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker. If using a slow cooker, brown the beef on the stovetop first, then cook on low for 7-8 hours.

What can I substitute for red wine?

Replace red wine with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Conclusion

Dutch Oven Beef Stew is the perfect hearty meal for cold nights, family dinners, or meal prep. Its slow-cooked richness, tender beef, and perfectly cooked vegetables make it a comforting favorite. Make a batch today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor!