There’s a certain comfort that comes from a hearty bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening. The moment I lift the lid off my Dutch oven, the rich aroma of tender beef mingling with garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, instantly making it feel like home. As I ladle out generous portions, I can’t help but admire how beautifully the crispy herb-roasted potatoes complement the vibrant steamed broccoli, creating a warm hug for the taste buds.
This Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together to deliver both flavor and nourishment. Perfect for those evenings when you’re yearning for something comforting yet healthy, this easy recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of textures, from juicy beef to crispy potatoes and tender broccoli, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and embrace the warmth of homemade cooking!
Why is Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli so special?
Comforting warmth: When the chilly weather hits, nothing beats a bowl of this delicious beef stew, bringing cozy vibes to your dinner table.
Nutritious goodness: Each component works in harmony—tender beef for protein, roasted potatoes for healthy carbs, and vibrant broccoli for vitamins.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps and wholesome ingredients, even novice cooks will shine!
Flavor explosion: The blend of rich broth, aromatic herbs, and spices creates a dish that dances on your palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners, it always brings smiles and empty bowls!
For more delicious ideas to make your dinner unforgettable, check out our guide on hearty meal pairings.
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes Ingredients
Unveil the secret to this comforting dish with the following ingredients!
For the Stew
- Beef Chuck – Main protein source, providing rich flavor; substitute with stew meat if unavailable.
- Onion – Enhances depth of flavor; use shallots for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic quality; fresh is preferred but garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
- Beef Broth – Base for stew; adds moisture and flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
- Red Wine – Adds acidity and depth; omit for a non-alcoholic version or replace with extra broth.
- Tomato Paste – Contributes richness and color; crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami flavor; soy sauce can be substituted if gluten-free.
- Dried Thyme – Herby note; substitute with Italian seasoning for diverse flavor.
- Dried Rosemary – Enhances flavor profile; fresh rosemary brings a more vibrant taste.
- Paprika – Adds smokiness; choose sweet or smoked based on your preference.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; consider using herbs de Provence for a twist.
For the Herb-Roasted Potatoes
- Potatoes – Base for roasted side, contributing texture; Yukon gold or russet work well.
- Olive Oil – For tossing potatoes; replace with vegetable oil if desired.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste along with your selected herbs.
For the Steamed Broccoli
- Broccoli Floret – Adds color and nutrition; can substitute with green beans for a different twist.
Embrace the magic of flavors with this Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli recipe and bring a comforting meal to your table!
How to Make Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck and brown it on all sides until you have a nice crust, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful browned bits. Then, add the beef broth and tomato paste, stirring well to combine.
Season: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will add depth and flavor to your stew.
Stew: Increase the heat to bring the stew to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Prep Potatoes: While the stew simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the potato chunks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
Steam Broccoli: In the last 10 minutes of the stew’s cooking time, place the broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam until bright green and tender, roughly 5-7 minutes.
Serve: Ladle the hearty beef stew into bowls, top with crispy herb-roasted potatoes, and serve with the steamed broccoli on the side. Enjoy this comforting meal!
Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the potatoes for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli?
Create a wholesome meal you and your loved ones will adore, elevating your dinner table experience.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the rich broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch to complete the meal. Whether it’s a sourdough loaf or a rustic baguette, it’s sure to be a hit.
Fresh Garden Salad: Light and crisp, a garden salad pairs beautifully with the savory stew, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors. Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a delightful side.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender, and vibrant, honey-glazed carrots harmonize with the savory notes of the beef stew. Their natural sweetness provides a beautiful balance on your plate.
Creamy Polenta: Soft and smooth, creamy polenta can soak up the stew’s richness while offering a unique twist on traditional sides. Stir in some cheese or herbs for added flavor and depth.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy edges of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a lovely texture that complements the tender beef and potatoes. Their earthy flavor rounds out the meal splendidly.
Red Wine: A glass of red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the robust flavors of the stew. Its acidity beautifully balances the meal, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Bringing these elements together transforms your dinner into a comforting feast that wraps you in warmth and joy!
Storage Tips for Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
Room Temperature: Allow the beef stew to cool completely before storing. It should not sit out for more than 2 hours to avoid bacteria growth.
Fridge: Store the beef stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This comforting dish tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Freezer: You can freeze the beef stew for up to 3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore moisture. Enjoy the warmth of homemade cooking again!
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delicious dish! Let your creativity shine as you explore these enticing variations and substitutions.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a delightful kick of heat. Your taste buds will be thanking you for this flavor explosion!
- Pork or Chicken: Swap out the beef for pork shoulder or chicken thighs for an exciting twist on protein without losing that hearty feel.
- Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless option, replace the beef with earthy mushrooms and use vegetable broth, ensuring you still get that rich, savory satisfaction.
- Root Vegetable Medley: Incorporate carrots or parsnips with the potatoes for a colorful and nutritious boost. Their sweetness will balance beautifully with the stew’s flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, either in the stew or as a garnish, to uplift the aromatic profile.
- Hearty Grains: Serve the stew over a bed of quinoa or rice for added texture and a wholesome, filling meal. The grains will soak up the delicious flavors!
- Richness Upgrade: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a creamy finish that adds a luxurious touch to every bowl.
- Zesty Flavors: A splash of lemon juice or zest right before serving can brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the beef stew.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef stew base up to 3 days in advance; simply let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The herb-roasted potatoes can be seasoned and cut up to 24 hours ahead of time; just refrigerate them in a separate container to keep them fresh. When it’s time to serve, reheat the stew gently on the stove until bubbling, and roast the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. This prep ensures you have a wholesome meal ready with minimal last-minute effort, making it just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
Uniform Cuts: Ensure beef chunks are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Uneven pieces can result in some being tough while others are tender.
Broccoli Brightness: Take care not to overcook the broccoli; it should be bright green and slightly tender. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture and loss of nutrients.
Proper Browning: For maximum flavor, allow the beef to brown well before adding other ingredients. This caramelization creates rich, deep flavors in the stew.
Simmering Time: Patience is key! Allow the stew to simmer for the full 1.5-2 hours to ensure the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors of the beef broth.
Roasting Potatoes: Spread potato chunks in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly and get crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
Storage Tips: If there are leftovers, let the stew cool before storing. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, with flavors developing even more overnight.
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best beef for the stew?
When choosing beef for your stew, look for well-marbled cuts like beef chuck, which offers the most flavor. The marbling ensures that as the beef cooks slowly, it becomes tender and juicy. Avoid very lean cuts, as they may become tough and chewy.
How should I store leftovers from the stew?
Absolutely! Once your beef stew has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container to preserve its flavors. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often find that the flavors blend even better after a night in the refrigerator!
Can I freeze Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. For reheating, just thaw in the fridge overnight before warming on the stove or microwave.
What if my broccoli becomes mushy?
Very common! To prevent mushy broccoli, steam it for just 5-7 minutes until it’s bright green and tender, but still crisp. Timing is crucial! You can always test the tenderness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be tender yet have a slight crunch.
Are there any dietary substitutes I should consider?
You bet! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, substitute soy sauce with gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. For non-red wine choices, feel free to use extra beef broth or a splash of vinegar for acidity. Additionally, if you’re vegetarian, swap beef for hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a lovely alternative.
Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Definitely! This stew is perfect for make-ahead meals. Feel free to make it a day or two in advance; it often tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld. Simply store it in the fridge or freezer, reheat gently on the stove, and enjoy!
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli Bliss
Equipment
- - Dutch oven
- - Baking sheet
- Steamer basket
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 pounds Beef Chuck Main protein source, substitute with stew meat if unavailable.
- 1 large Onion Enhances depth of flavor; use shallots for a milder taste.
- 3 cloves Garlic Provides aromatic quality; fresh is preferred.
- 4 cups Beef Broth Base for stew; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 cup Red Wine Adds acidity and depth; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Contributes richness and color; crushed tomatoes can work as a substitute.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami flavor; soy sauce can be substituted if gluten-free.
- 2 teaspoons Dried Thyme Herby note; substitute with Italian seasoning.
- 2 teaspoons Dried Rosemary Enhances flavor profile; fresh rosemary brings a more vibrant taste.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds smokiness; choose sweet or smoked based on your preference.
- Salt & Pepper Essential seasonings to taste.
For the Herb-Roasted Potatoes
- 2 pounds Potatoes Base for roasted side, Yukon gold or russet work well.
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil For tossing potatoes; replace with vegetable oil if desired.
- Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
For the Steamed Broccoli
- 4 cups Broccoli Floret Adds color and nutrition; can substitute with green beans.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Add the beef broth and tomato paste, stirring well.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Increase the heat to bring the stew to a boil. Reduce to low and let it simmer for about 1.5-2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss potato chunks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Spread on a baking sheet and roast until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking, place broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam until bright green, about 5-7 minutes.
- Ladle the beef stew into bowls, top with crispy herb-roasted potatoes, and serve with steamed broccoli.