Can I use other vegetables in this stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms to enhance the dish.

How do I make the stew thicker?

If you prefer a thick stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.

How long can I store leftover beef stew?

In the refrigerator, beef stew lasts about 3 to 4 days. If frozen, it can last for about 3 months.

Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! In fact, stews often taste better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.

What sides pair best with this meal?

Crusty bread, a light salad, or even steamed veggies work beautifully alongside Beef Stew with Potato Topping.

Beef Stew with Potato Topping

Description

This hearty Beef Stew with Potato Topping is a comforting and satisfying meal made with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich broth, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or special family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mashed potatoes (for topping)
1/2 cup peas (optional)
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
1/2 cup green beans, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, adding more oil as needed. Set the browned beef aside.
In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until beef is tender.
Add carrots and diced potatoes to the stew. Simmer for another 30 minutes or until vegetables are soft.
If using, add peas, mushrooms and green beans. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer stew to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the mashed potatoes, if desired.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve hot.

Notes

Use chuck roast for tender, flavorful beef.
You can make mashed potatoes ahead of time to save prep work.
For a crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Braising and Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 460
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: beef stew, potato topping, comfort food, gluten-free dinner, hearty meal