Easy Beef Stew with Beans: A Bowlful of Comfort in 6 Steps

Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m Sophia, and let me tellya, there’s just something about a hearty bowl of stew that warms you from the inside out. Today, I’m super excited to share one of my all-time faves: beef stew with beans. This isn’t just any stew; it’s a flavor explosion and a hug in a bowl all rolled into one!

I remember the first time I made this. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something comforting. I tested a few recipes, tweaked some ingredients, and boom! This recipe was born. My family went nuts for it! Now, it’s a staple in our home. It has become my go to recipe. I use it when I need something filling, nutritious, and easy to prep.

This beef stew with beans recipe? It’s packed with tender beef, hearty beans, and a bunch of veggies swimming in a rich, savory broth. Trust me; you’ll want seconds. I’m not kidding! So, grab yer apron, and let’s get cooking!

I put together this recipe with you in mind, so you can recreate it at home. Don’t be afraid to add your own twist!

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Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Beef Stew with Beans

Okay, so why should you try this recipe? It’s simple. This beef stew with beans is gonna be your new best friend! I promise! Here is why you’re going to love it:

• Comfort in a Bowl: Experience the ultimate comfort food. I mean, who doesn’t love a warm, hearty stew on a cold day?
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup with minimal dishes. This is an amaizing one-pot recipe. Less mess equals more relaxin’!
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. This beef and bean stew is so filling. It’s perfect after a long day.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Don’t like kidney beans? Use another kind! Want more veggies? Throw ’em in!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner. Trust me, it tastes even better the next day!

Seriously, what’s not to love? This beef stew with beans is a winner, winner, stew for dinner!

The Secret to the Best Beef Stew with Beans

Alright, let’s spill the beans… no pun intended! The secret to a truly amazing beef stew with beans isn’t just about throwing ingredients together. It’s about using the right stuff and letting those flavors meld!

• The beef? Gotta use chuck. It’s got the perfect amount of fat to get super tender as it simmers.
• Beans are not just beans! Kidney beans add a creamy texture and nice flavor. But feel free to experiment with other types like pinto or cannellini.
• Don’t forget the broth. I always use beef broth. It adds richness that water just can’t match.

I swear, these little details make a huge difference! It’s all about layering those flavors to create a beef & bean stew that’s unforgettable!

Ingredients for Beef Stew with Beans

Okay, folks, before we dive into makin’ this killer beef stew with beans, let’s gather our ingredients. I always say, having everything prepped and ready makes cookin’ a breeze! Plus, using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor. So, here’s what you’ll need. Don’t worry. I got you covered with some options too!

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cubed: Look for well-marbled pieces for the best flavor.
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed: Rinsing gets rid of extra sodium.
• 4 cups beef broth: Homemade is awesome. But store-bought works too!
• 3 medium carrots, sliced: Adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 medium potatoes, diced: I like Yukon gold, but russets are fine.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work great.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is key!
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds richness and depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a classic stew flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky touch.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously!
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the beef.

Optional Add-ons

Want to kick things up a notch? Here are some extras I love to throw in my beef stew with beans:

• 1 cup green beans, cut: For extra veggies.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: Any color works!
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory boost.
• Fresh herbs for garnish: Parsley or thyme are great.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: A splash of acidity at the end brightens the whole thing up.

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Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Perfect Beef Stew with Beans

Okay, chefs, let’s get down to business! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of amazin’ beef stew with beans simmering away in no time. Don’t worry. I’ll walk you through it.

Step 1: Searing the Beef

First things first, grab a large pot or Dutch oven. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Now, here’s the deal: searing the beef isn’t just for looks. It creates a yummy crust that locks in the juices and adds a ton of flavor to the stew. Trust me, don’t skip this step! Sear the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. You want a nice, brown crust on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Once seared, remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics

Now, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the pot. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic happens! Onions and garlic are flavor powerhouses. Sautéing them first releases all their goodness, creating a base for the stew. Keep stirring so they don’t burn!

Step 3: Adding Vegetables and Beans

Next, add the carrots and potatoes, stirring them around for a minute or two. Then, stir in the kidney beans, tomato paste, dried thyme, and paprika. Give everything a good stir to coat the veggies and beans with all that yummy flavor. The order matters! Starting with the carrots and potatoes gives them a head start since they take longer to cook.

Step 4: Simmering to Perfection

Pour in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those bits are pure flavor gold! Add the seared beef back into the pot. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is super tender. Slow cooking is key here! It allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

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Step 5: Finishing Touches

Give the stew a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed with salt and pepper. If you’re using any of the optional add-ins like green beans, bell pepper, or Worcestershire sauce, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. I like to add a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving to brighten up the flavors. It’s a game changer!

Step 6: Serving and Enjoying

Alright! Your beef stew with beans is ready! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve it with some crusty bread for dunking, or a side salad for a complete meal. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy every single bite!

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Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Beef Stew with Beans

Okay, let’s talk swapsies! I get it, sometimes you don’t have everything on hand, or maybe you just wanna switch things up! No prob. This beef stew with beans recipe is super flexible! Here are a few ideas:

• Beef: No chuck roast? Use stew meat. Just keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t get tough.
• Beans: Kidney beans not your thing? Pinto beans or cannellini beans work great. Even black beans add a fun twist to this beef and bean stew.
• Broth: If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth will do in a pinch. You can also use bouillon cubes to make broth.
• Veggies: Feel free to add or swap any veggies you like! Celery, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes would be yummy.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this beef stew with beans your own! Also, don’t be afraid to make a typo oR two like I did. It’s all good!

Tips for the Most Delicious Beef Stew with Beans

Want to take your beef stew with beans from good to great? I got you! Here are a few of my top tips for a truly unforgettable stew. These tips will help you make the most flavorful beef and bean stew!

• Don’t rush the browning: Searing the beef properly adds so much flavor. Take your time and get a good crust on each piece.
• Low and slow is the way to go: Simmering the stew for a longer time makes the beef super tender and lets the flavors meld together.
• Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the stew throughout the cooking process and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Make it ahead of time: Stew always tastes better the next day! The flavors have more time to develop.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be rewarded with a beef stew with beans that’s bursting with flavor and oh-so-satisfying!

Beef Stew with Beans Variations: Make It Your Own!

Okay, listen up, you culinary adventurers! Wanna jazz up your beef stew with beans? I’m all about it! This recipe is just a starting point. Feel free to get wild and make it your own. Here are some fun ideas to play with!

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes for a kick.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, bay leaf, or oregano.
• Veggie boost: Throw in some mushrooms, peas, or even kale for extra nutrients.
• Bean bonanza: Try different beans! Great Northern beans, black-eyed peas, or even chickpeas would be delicious.

Seriously, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create a beef stew with beans that’s totally unique to you!

Serving Suggestions for Beef Stew with Beans

So, you’ve got a pot of hearty beef stew with beans, and now you’re thinkin’, “What goes with this?” I got you! Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this yummy stew:

• Crusty bread: Perfect for sopping up all that delicious broth!
• Side salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the stew.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make it extra comforting.

Honestly, this beef stew with beans is so good, it can stand alone! But a little somethin’ on the side never hurts!

Storage & Reheating Your Beef Stew with Beans

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This beef stew with beans tastes even better the next day! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Easy peasy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Stew with Beans

Got questions about makin’ this awesome beef stew with beans? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get asked, plus my tried-and-true tips. I’m here to help you nail this recipe!

Can I use a different type of bean in my beef and bean stew?

Totally! Kidney beans are classic, but feel free to experiment. Pinto, cannellini, or even black beans work great in a beef and bean stew. Each type will give a slightly different flavor and texture. So, go wild and see what you like best!

How do I thicken my beef stew with beans?

Stew too thin? No worries! You can thicken your beef stew with beans a few ways. Try mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water. Then, stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You could also mash some of the potatoes in the stew to thicken it naturally!

Can I make beef stew with beans in a slow cooker?

Yep! Slow cookers are perfect for beef stew with beans! Sear the beef first, then toss everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Easy peasy!

What’s the best cut of beef for beef stew with beans?

I always recommend beef chuck for beef stew with beans. It has great marbling, which means it gets super tender and flavorful as it simmers. Stew meat also works, but keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t get tough.

How long does beef stew with beans last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored, your beef stew with beans will last 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It tastes even better the next day!

Join the Kitchen User Community!

Hey, you made it to the end! I hope you love this beef stew with beans as much as I do! Now, I wanna hear from you! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Did you add your own twist? Share your creations on social media and tag me @KitchenUser. Can’t wait to see what you cook up!

Beef Stew with Beans: A Bowlful of Comfort in 6 Steps

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Beef stew with beans is a comforting dish with tender beef, flavorful beans, and vegetables.

• Author: Sophia Collins
• Prep Time: 20-30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cubed
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup green beans, cut (optional)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot and brown beef.
2. Remove beef and sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add carrots and potatoes, stirring.
4. Add beans, tomato paste, thyme, and paprika, stirring well.
5. Pour in beef broth, scraping the pot bottom.
6. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Notes

• Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
• Adjust broth for desired thickness.
• Refrigerate overnight to enhance flavors.
• Experiment with different beans.
• Serve with bread or salad.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 350-400
• Sugar: 3-5 grams
• Sodium: 600-800 mg
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
• Unsaturated Fat: 10-12 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Fiber: 8-10 grams
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg

Keywords: beef stew, beans, comfort food, hearty meal, slow cooking

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/beef-stew-with-beans-discover-the-ultimate-comfort-food/