Italian Beef Stew

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich, comforting tastes of this Italian Beef Stew, packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, delivering a flavorful experience that transports you straight to Italy. Ideal for meal prepping or serving at gatherings, it's a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-27T12:28:45.292Z

A Taste of Italy

Italian cuisine is cherished worldwide for its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients. This Italian Beef Stew brings together the traditional tastes of Italy, infusing each bite with aromatic herbs and rich textures. The hearty combination of beef and vegetables creates a comforting dish you can savor, stirring fond memories of Italian family gatherings around the dinner table. With every spoonful, you'll feel transported to a rustic Italian kitchen, where ingredients are lovingly combined to create a meal that warms the soul.

The secret to an authentic Italian Beef Stew lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using fresh herbs, high-quality beef, and seasonal vegetables elevates this stew, allowing the flavors to shine. The rich, savory broth is the result of slow cooking, which melds the ingredients beautifully. Whether you're preparing this dish for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, the result is guaranteed to impress and satisfy your loved ones.

Meal Prep and Convenience

One of the great advantages of this Italian Beef Stew is its versatility and convenience, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cooking in a large batch doesn’t just save time; it also allows the flavors to develop even further as the stew sits. You can prepare it on a Sunday and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. Simply store it in airtight containers and reheat for a quick, delicious meal.

This stew also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make extra and store it for future dinners. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. No need for complicated meal planning—this stew makes satisfying family meals easy and stress-free.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

While the recipe is delightful as written, don't hesitate to make it your own. You can add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for additional flavor and nutrition. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The beauty of this stew lies in its adaptability to suit any taste preferences, making it truly a family-friendly dish.

When serving, consider pairing the stew with crusty bread or a side salad to balance the richness. A glass of red wine complements the meal beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this Italian Beef Stew is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 bay leaves
2 cups potatoes, cubed
1 cup green peas
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Preparation Steps

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Add Potatoes and Peas

After 1.5 hours, add the potatoes and green peas. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove bay leaves and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Storing Italian Beef Stew

To store any leftovers from your Italian Beef Stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This ensures the stew remains fresh and delicious for later consumption. Stored properly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to three days, or you can freeze it for up to three months. Be sure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

When reheating the stew, add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened in the refrigerator. This helps restore its original consistency and keeps it from drying out. Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave, ensuring that it warms evenly.

Nutritional Benefits

This Italian Beef Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The beef provides a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, enhancing the dish's overall nutritional profile. Ingredients like carrots contribute beta-carotene, while tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants like lycopene.

Moreover, the herbs used in this stew—such as oregano and basil—are known for their health benefits. They not only add flavor but also possess anti-inflammatory properties and may support digestion. This makes the stew a satisfying and nourishing option for families looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can sear the beef and then transfer everything to a slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What can I serve with Italian Beef Stew?

This stew goes well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.