As the aromas of savory beef and fresh herbs waft through my kitchen, memories of family gatherings flood my mind. This Classic Ina Garten Beef Stew is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl on a chilly day. With tender chunks of beef, hearty Yukon Gold potatoes, and a symphony of flavors from red wine and herbs, it’s a dish that brings everyone together. Plus, this stew is a perfect blend of comfort food that doesn’t require hours of slaving over the stove—you can have it ready in just about three and a half hours! Ideal for cozy dinners or lively gatherings, it’s a healthy upgrade to takeout that you can easily make gluten-free, too. Are you ready to discover how to turn simple ingredients into something truly spectacular?

Why is this stew a must-try?

Hearty Comfort: This Classic Ina Garten Beef Stew brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table, making it the ultimate cozy meal for chilly evenings. Flavor Explosion: With tender beef, Yukon Gold potatoes, and a rich blend of herbs and red wine, each bite is packed with robust flavors. Effortless Cooking: Don’t worry if you’re short on time; this stew simmers to perfection in just about 3 hours and 40 minutes, leaving you free to enjoy time with family or savor a good book. Versatile Options: Whether you prefer a gluten-free version or want to toss in extra veggies, this recipe easily adapts to your preferences. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s hard to resist a bowl of this savory delight. Pair it with a side of warm crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal, just like in my Beans Greens Stew or the cheesy goodness of Cheesy Beef Chimichangas.

Ina Garten Beef Stew Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for a hearty stew!

For the Stew

Beef Chuck – Tender, flavorful meat source. Can substitute with beef brisket if desired.
Kosher Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavor. Adjust according to taste preferences.
Olive Oil – For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables. Can use vegetable oil as an alternative.
Yellow Onions – Adds sweetness and depth to the stew. Shallots can be a substitute.
Garlic Cloves – Provides robust flavor. Minced garlic can be replaced by garlic powder at 1/8 tsp per clove.
Carrots – Adds sweetness and color. Can substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
Celery – Contributes to the aromatic base. Omit for a lower vegetable content if desired.
Tomato Paste – Intensifies flavor and color. Tomato sauce can be used in a lesser quantity as a substitute.
Dry Red Wine – Brings depth; can be omitted or replaced with extra beef broth. Adds robust flavor.
Beef Broth – The stew base; enhances meat flavor. Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste.
Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture. Fresh tomatoes can replace canned if in season.
Dried Thyme – Herb that complements the beef well. Fresh thyme can be substituted at a 3:1 ratio.
Bay Leaves – Adds aromatic depth. Omit if unavailable, but do not consume.
Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami flavor. Can be substituted with soy sauce for a similar effect.

Optional Ingredients

Potatoes – Adds heartiness, use Yukon Gold or russet. Skip for a lighter stew.
Mushrooms – Provides earthiness. Portobello or cremini mushrooms can be used.
Peas – Freshness and sweetness. Substitute with green beans if preferred.
Roux – A thickening agent made from equal parts butter and flour. Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free cooking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten Beef Stew

Step 1: Prep Beef
Start by seasoning the beef chuck generously with kosher salt and pepper. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown all sides for about 4-5 minutes until a nice crust forms. Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Toss in 2 large diced onions, 3 minced garlic cloves, 3 sliced carrots, and 3 chopped celery stalks. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they turn tender, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing well to coat the vegetables. Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in 1 cup of dry red wine. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot, scraping up any flavorful browned bits that have stuck to the surface, enhancing the flavor of the Ina Garten beef stew.

Step 4: Add Broth & Herbs
Once the beef and vegetables are well combined, pour in 4 cups of beef broth and one can of diced tomatoes (28 oz), followed by 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything thoroughly, and bring this rich mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Slow Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to allow the stew to simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and infused with the savory flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily shreds apart and the sauce thickens nicely.

Step 6: Thicken (if desired)
If you prefer a thicker stew, prepare a roux by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan and whisking in 2 tablespoons of flour (or a gluten-free alternative). Cook for a minute until golden, then gradually stir it into the beef stew, allowing it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat for optimal thickness.

Step 7: Serve
Once your stew reaches a hearty consistency, remove the bay leaves carefully. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper as preferred. Serve the warm Ina Garten beef stew hot, ideally with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a fulfilling meal.

What to Serve with Classic Ina Garten Beef Stew

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a well-rounded meal to enjoy alongside a cozy bowl of stew.

Crusty Artisan Bread: A perfect companion to soak up luscious gravy. Its crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the stew’s rich flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food pairing; they enhance the stew’s hearty essence while providing a silky texture. A dollop of butter on top never hurts!
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: This dish brings a delightful crunch and slight bitterness, balancing the stew’s richness while adding a pop of color.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous is a delightful alternative that soaks up the stew’s juices, offering a gentle, floral flavor complementing the beef.
Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette brighten the palate and offer a refreshing contrast to the warm stew.
Red Wine: Enhances the dining experience! A glass of Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon mirrors the stew’s flavors, creating a harmonious pairing.
Seasonal Vegetable Medley: Roasted root vegetables add a hint of sweetness and seasonal flair, marrying well with the depth of the beef stew.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this decadent treat with a gooey center satisfies the craving for something sweet and indulgent after a savory meal.
Apple Crisp: A delightful way to finish your dinner, this warm, spiced dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, complementing the heartiness of the stew.

Make Ahead Options

Making the Classic Ina Garten Beef Stew ahead of time is a brilliant way to save precious hours during busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef and vegetable base up to 24 hours in advance; simply season and brown the beef, then sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Store these prepped components in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy the stew, just combine the beef and vegetables in your pot with the wine, broth, and remaining ingredients, and let it simmer until the beef is fork-tender. This way, you’ll savor all the rich flavors with minimal effort, and your stew will be just as delicious!

Storage Tips for Ina Garten Beef Stew

Fridge: Store the stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space in the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Meal Prep: This Ina Garten beef stew is perfect for meal prepping! Make a big batch, and enjoy comforting meals throughout the week or on busy days.

Ina Garten Beef Stew Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting classic by exploring these delightful variations that add excitement and flavor!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in the roux to cater to gluten-sensitive friends and family. You can still enjoy the delicious thickness without the wheat!
Veggie-Loaded: Toss in root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor depth. Each extra veggie creates a new layer of taste for a heartier dish.
Extra Herby: Add a bouquet garni of fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley, tied in cheesecloth for easy removal, to elevate the fragrance and flavor profile of the stew.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. It adds warmth and excitement to each bite, perfect for spice lovers.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a rich, smoky twist. It lends an unexpected depth that turns this classic into something special.
Creamy Base: For a velvety finish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end of cooking. This addition melds beautifully with the stew’s rich flavors, adding a luxurious touch.
Wine-Free Version: Replace red wine with extra beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic yet deeply flavored alternative. It will still be just as comforting without the alcohol.
Wild Mushroom Medley: Add a mix of sautéed mushrooms—like shiitake, cremini, and portobello—for added earthiness and umami flavor. They create a delightful texture contrast to the tender beef while enhancing the overall taste.

These variations not only keep the recipe exciting, but they also allow everyone to customize their bowl of bliss! Enjoy pairing your stew with a side of crusty bread or a creative twist on creamy mashed potatoes, just like you would with my delicious Beans Greens Stew or the cheesy goodness of Cheesy Beef Chimichangas. Embrace the adventure of cooking, and delight your loved ones with every delicious, cozy bite!

Expert Tips for Ina Garten Beef Stew

Browning is Key: Ensure you brown the beef well in batches to develop deep flavors—overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning.
Wine Alternatives: If you’re skipping the wine, use equal parts beef broth and a splash of vinegar to maintain a rich flavor profile in your Ina Garten beef stew.
Thickness Adjustments: For a thicker stew without adding flour, let it simmer uncovered longer to evaporate excess liquid and concentrate flavors.
Seasoning Wisely: Always taste as you go! You may need more salt or pepper depending on your broth’s saltiness, enhancing the overall taste of your stew.
Don’t Rush the Cook: Patience is crucial! Allowing the stew to simmer low and slow helps the flavors meld beautifully and tenderizes the beef perfectly.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like turnips or green beans for a personalized touch.

Ina Garten Beef Stew Recipe FAQs

Which type of beef is best for this stew?
Absolutely, beef chuck is the ideal cut for this Classic Ina Garten Beef Stew because it becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking. If you can’t find chuck, beef brisket works as a great substitute, adding a slightly different flavor profile while still giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How do I store leftover stew?
You can store this hearty beef stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Reheating it on the stovetop will bring that cozy aroma back to life!

Can this stew be frozen for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze this stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. When freezing, leave some space at the top of the container for expansion. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if it’s too thick.

What should I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Simply add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few more minutes, so all the flavors meld beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations for this stew?
Definitely! This Classic Ina Garten Beef Stew can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free flour for the roux or simply omitting it altogether for a lighter stew. Always check that your beef broth and any additional ingredients are gluten-free as well, especially if cooking for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

How can I tell if my beef is tender enough?
The key indicator is ease of shredding. After 2-3 hours of slow cooking, your beef should flake apart easily with a fork. If it doesn’t, continue to simmer for additional time. If you want to test for doneness, you can try pulling a piece out; it should feel soft and nearly fall apart when you poke it.