There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of beef stew to warm your soul on a chilly evening. If you’re searching for the ultimate Martha Stewart beef stew recipe, you’ve come to the right place. As someone who’s tried countless stew recipes.

I can confidently say Martha’s version is a game-changer—rich, hearty, and flavorful. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this guide will walk you through every step to create a stew that feels like a hug in a bowl. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What is Beef Stew?

Beef stew is essentially comfort food in a bowl! It’s a dish where cubed beef chuck simmers in a savory broth with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. Many stew recipe variations exist, but the core idea is tender beef and flavorful, softened vegetables swimming in a delicious sauce. It’s the perfect meal when you want something hearty and warming.

What Makes Martha Stewart Beef Stew So Special?

Martha Stewart’s beef stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a masterpiece. Her years of cooking wisdom shine here. This Martha Stewart beef stew recipe is proof—it’s reliable, tasty, and always works. What makes it stand out? It’s easy to follow. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can nail this dish. The result? A stew that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor.

No wonder it’s one of the best Martha Stewart Beef Stew recipes out there. Another plus? It’s super flexible. You can cook it on the stovetop or try it as a Martha Stewart slow cooker beef stew. It’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. And let’s not forget trust. Martha Stewart’s recipes are loved by millions, and this stew is no exception. It’s comfort food at its best.

Love hearty meals? Try this flavorful twist with our Easy Beef Stew Hawaii Recipe for a tropical take on traditional comfort food!

Ingredients for Martha Stewart Beef Stew Recipe

2 lbs chuck roast, cut into 1½-inch cubes
4 slices of bacon, chopped (for extra depth)
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 medium potatoes, cubed
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp tomato paste (for richness)
3 cups beef stock (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup red wine (or substitute with extra beef stock)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the beef)
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
1 bay leaf

Equipment and Tools

Chef’s Knife
Cutting Board
Tongs
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Mixing Bowl
Ladle

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

How to Make Martha Stewart Beef Stew Recipe

Let’s make this Martha Stewart beef stew recipe! It’s easy and full of flavor. Follow these steps for a stew that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prep the Meat: Cut the chuck roast into cubes. Season with salt and pepper, which adds flavor. Chop the bacon into small pieces. Cook it in a pot until crispy. Set the bacon aside. Keep the fat in the pot.

Step 2: Brown the Meat: Add the beef cubes to the pot. Cook them in batches, not crowding the pan. Let the beef brown on all sides, adding rich flavor. Set the beef aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan: Pour 1 cup of beef stock into the pot. Scrape the browned bits off the bottom. This adds depth to the stew.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables: Add olive oil to the pot. Toss in the onions, garlic, and carrots. Cook until soft. Add the mushrooms. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Stew: Sprinkle flour over the veggies. Stir well. This thickens the stew. Add tomato paste and Dijon mustard. Stir until combined.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the rest of the beef stock and red wine. Add the beef, bacon, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours. Add the potatoes. Cook for 25 more minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy: Your stew is ready! Serve with bread or noodles. Garnish with parsley.

Watch How to Make

Tips for Making the Best Martha Stewart Beef Stew

Making the perfect beef stew is easy with a few tricks. Here are my top tips to take your Martha Stewart beef stew recipe to the next level:

Use a Slow Cooker: If you’re busy, try this as a Martha Stewart slow cooker beef stew. After browning the meat and veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. It’s hands-off and just as delicious.
Make Ahead: Stews taste even better the next day! The flavors deepen as they sit. Make it a day early for a stress-free meal.
Store It Right: Keep leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when needed.
Skim the Fat: While simmering, skim off any excess fat. This keeps the stew rich but not greasy.
Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness.
Try Different Cuts: While chuck roast is ideal, you can also use brisket or short ribs. They’re equally tender and flavorful.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the meat. It’s the key to that deep, rich flavor Martha Stewart is known for.

Serving Ideas for Martha Stewart Beef Stew

Your Martha Stewart beef stew recipe is ready, and now it’s time to serve it up! Here are some fun and delicious ways to enjoy this hearty dish:

Classic Comfort: Serve the stew in big, warm bowls. Add a slice of crusty bread or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. It’s pure comfort food at its best.
Over Noodles: For a twist, ladle the stew over egg noodles or pappardelle. The noodles soak up the rich gravy, making every bite even more satisfying.
With a Fresh Salad: Pair the stew with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan adds a fresh contrast to the rich stew.
Garnish for Flair: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or a dollop of sour cream. A little grated horseradish adds a nice kick, too.
Make It a Feast: Turn your stew into a full meal by adding sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic bread, or baked sweet potatoes.
Leftover Magic: Do you have leftovers? Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef stock. For a new twist, serve it over rice or in a baked potato.

Craving bold flavors? Don’t miss our Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe—a bold, zesty dish perfect for fans of hearty home-cooked meals!

What I Love Most About This Stewart Beef Stew

What I love most about this beef stew is how hearty and reliable it is, especially in winter. I’ve always looked for a classic beef stew recipe that excites my taste buds, and this one nailed it! Dump the beef chuck into your Dutch oven, add two diced onions, celery, parsnip, and rutabaga, then season with salt and pepper. It’s simple! Bring the pot to a boil with three cups of water and two bay leaves, then mix until combined.

Once you’ve added balsamic vinegar and garlic chili sauce, you can add rice for a complete meal. I prefer this technique because it amps up the flavor. Just slap a lid on that Dutch oven and transfer it to the oven to let it simmer. Watching the cooking process unfold is like an ad for comfort food! And the secret ingredient? The sweetness of those canned roasted tomatoes ties it all together!

FAQs about Martha Stewart Beef Stew Recipe

How to cook beef stew from scratch?

Start by browning seasoned beef cubes in a pot. Add veggies, broth, and herbs. Simmer for 1.5-2 hours until tender. This Martha Stewart beef stew recipe is a great guide!

How to start a stew?

Begin by browning the meat for flavor. Then, sauté onions, garlic, and carrots. Add broth and simmer. This method works for any beef stew recipe.

Is there a Martha Stewart beef soup recipe?

While this is a stew, Martha Stewart’s beef bourguignon or pot roast recipes are similar and equally delicious.

How do you make beef stew from scratch?

Brown beef, cook veggies, add broth, and simmer. For a foolproof version, follow this Martha Stewart beef stew recipe.

How do you make broth for Stewart Beef Stew?

You can use store-bought beef stock or make your own by simmering beef bones, veggies, and herbs for 4-6 hours.

What makes a stew a stew?

A stew is a slow-cooked mixture of meat, vegetables, and liquid. Thanks to flour or a roux, it’s thicker than soup.

Conclusion

You’ve got it—a simple guide to the best Martha Stewart beef stew recipe! This dish is rich, hearty, and perfect for any night. It’s great for family dinners or cozy evenings. You can cook it on the stovetop or try it as a Martha Stewart slow cooker beef stew. It’s easy and always delicious.

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