There’s something magical about a pot of Betty Crocker beef stew simmering on the stove—the rich aroma, the tender beef, and the hearty vegetables bring instant comfort. This is the kind of homemade stew recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Growing up, my family always turned to traditional recipes for beef stew, keeping things simple yet flavorful.
And the best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or beef broth to make it delicious! By the end of this guide, you’ll have an easy, basic beef stew recipe perfect for beginners. So, grab your favorite pot, and let’s get cooking!
Why This Is the Best Traditional Beef Stew Recipe
This beef stew is warm, rich, and full of flavor. It is easy to make and great for cold days. Each bite is soft, tasty, and feels like home. We brown the beef first. This locks in the flavor. Then we cook onions, carrots, and celery. These give the stew a sweet and deep taste. A spoonful of tomato paste and a splash of broth make the base rich. We also add herbs like thyme and bay leaf.
The stew cooks slowly. This makes the beef soft and the broth thick. Potatoes soak up the flavor, and add heat to the dish.This stew is perfect for dinner with family or meal prep. It is simple, classic, and loved by all. You will want to make it again and again.
Craving more hearty comfort food? Don’t miss our Best Homemade Hormel Beef Stew Recipe for another classic twist.
Ingredients for Betty Crocker Beef Stew Recipe
- 1 ½ lbs of stew meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
- ¼ cup flour (for coating the beef)
- 2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil
- 3 cups water (or broth, if preferred)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced into rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup peas (optional)
Equipment & Tools
To make this classic beef stew, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot (4-quart)
- 12-inch skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl or large zip-top bag
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Small bowl with lid or mason jar
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 People
How to Make Betty Crocker Beef Stew Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Beef: Toss beef chunks in flour, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to coat the beef evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown beef in small batches.
Step 3: Simmer the Beef: Once browned, pour in 6 cups of hot water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables: After 2 hours, add carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, bay leaf, and optional bouillon cubes. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Thicken the Stew: Mix 4 tbsp flour with 1 cup cold water, shake well, and stir into stew. Let boil for 1 minute while stirring.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Remove bay leaf. Serve stew in bowls with bread or mashed potatoes.
Watch How to Make Crocker Beef Stew Recipe
Tips for Betty Crocker Beef Stew Recipe
1. Pick Good Beef: The beef is the star of this stew. Choose cuts like chuck roast or stew meat. They have enough fat to stay tender. Ask your butcher for help if you’re unsure.
2. Brown the Beef Well: Take your time browning the beef. Don’t rush it! Let each piece get a nice, golden crust. This step adds so much flavor. And don’t crowd the pot—cook in small batches.
3. Simmer: Let the beef simmer on low heat for at least 2 hours. This makes the meat super tender. If you’re in a hurry, use a slow or pressure cooker.
4. Add Your Favorite Veggies: Feel free to swap in veggies you love. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or mushrooms work great. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
5. Adjust the Thickness: Like your stew thick? Use the flour-water mix. Prefer it thinner? Skip it or use less. It’s your stew—make it just how you like it!
6. Make It Ahead: Stew tastes even better the next day. The flavors get richer. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently. It’s a great meal prep idea. Want a cold lunch idea with that leftover comfort vibe? Try this Copycat Calvin’s Chicken Salad recipe—it’s perfect for meal prep!
7. Serve It Right: Pair your stew with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Serving Ideas for Classic Betty Crocker Beef Stew Recipe
1. Crusty Bread or Rolls: There’s nothing better than dipping a piece of warm, crusty bread into that rich, flavorful broth. It’s like a match made in comfort food heaven. If you’re feeling fancy, try garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Spoon your stew over creamy mashed potatoes. The combo is pure comfort. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch the meal if you feed a crowd.
3. Buttered Noodles or Rice: For a heartier meal, serve your stew with buttered egg noodles or steamed rice. They soak up the broth beautifully and add a nice texture contrast.
4. Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the stew with a light, fresh salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonders. It’s a great way to add crunch and brightness to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: If you want to keep it veggie-heavy, pair your stew with roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. They add a caramelized, savory touch that complements the stew perfectly.
FAQs About Betty Crocker Beef Stew
What is the secret to a good stew?
The secret is slow cooking. Let the beef simmer on low heat for hours. This makes the meat tender. Browning the beef well also adds great flavor.
Is Dinty Moore Crocker Beef Stew healthy?
Dinty Moore stew is quick but high in sodium. For a healthier choice, make Betty Crocker Beef Stew at home. You can use fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Can I make Betty Crocker beef gravy with this recipe?
Yes! Use the stew’s broth as a base. Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir it into the broth and simmer until thick.
How do I make Betty Crocker beef stew in a crock pot?
Brown the beef first. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. It’s easy and hands-off!
Can I make Betty Crocker beef stew in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Brown the beef using the sauté function. Add all ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
Why use a Dutch oven for Betty Crocker beef stew?
A Dutch oven spreads heat evenly. It’s great for browning beef and simmering for hours. Plus, it goes from stovetop to oven easily.
Time to Enjoy Your Homemade Stew!
There’s something truly special about a pot of Betty Crocker beef stew simmering away, filling your kitchen with rich, comforting aromas. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ve created a traditional recipe for beef stew that’s as cozy as a hug in a bowl. Whether you enjoyed it fresh off the stove, slow-cooked for extra tenderness, or even made a beef stew without beef broth, you’ve mastered a homemade stew recipe that’s both timeless and beginner-friendly.
So, grab a warm slice of crusty bread, serve a hearty portion, and savor every bite. And hey—don’t keep this deliciousness to yourself! Share your basic Crocker Beef Stew recipe experience in the comments, or tag your cozy creations online. Who knows? This might just become your new go-to comfort meal. Happy cooking!
