There’s something undeniably comforting about a simmering pot of beef stew, especially when the weather turns crisp and chilly. Picture this: the kitchen fills with the inviting scent of tender beef braising in a rich broth, mingling with earthy thyme and rosemary. As I chopped the vibrant broccoli and prepared the herb-roasted potatoes, I could already envision my family gathered around the table, laughter and warmth filling the air.
This Tender Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli is not just a meal—it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary night into a cozy gathering. Perfectly balanced, this dish satisfies cravings for both heartiness and health. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress at a weekend gathering, this recipe offers a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Let’s dive in and cook up a storm!
Why is Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli perfect?
Comfort Food for All: This dish is a warm hug on a plate, ideal for chilly evenings.
Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking with minimal clean-up—everything comes together beautifully in one pot.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: There’s something for everyone, from the tender beef to the crispy potatoes, making it perfect for family gatherings.
Versatile Customization: Easily switch ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry, ensuring a fresh take each time!
Ingredients for Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
For the Beef Stew
- Beef Chuck – Main protein source; substitute with beef brisket for varied texture.
- Whole Onion – Enhances the flavor base; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic depth; mince for better integration into the stew.
- Beef Broth – Liquid base for the stew; use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Red Wine – Adds acidity and richness; replace with more beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Tomato Paste – Thickener and flavor enhancer; crushed tomatoes can offer a chunkier texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances savoriness; soy sauce is a great non-dairy alternative.
- Dried Thyme – Provides earthy notes; fresh thyme may be substituted while adjusting the amount.
- Dried Rosemary – Adds robust flavor; crush before use for better flavor release.
- Paprika – Introduces warmth and subtle smokiness; smoked paprika can enhance the flavor further.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste.
For the Herb-Roasted Potatoes
- Potatoes – Provide starch and heartiness; sweet potatoes can add a hint of sweetness.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and roasting; canola oil works as a suitable neutral option.
- Dried Herbs – Enhances flavor; use a mix of rosemary and thyme for a fragrant finish.
For the Steamed Broccoli
- Broccoli Florets – Adds color and nutrition; fresh or frozen varieties work well.
- Salt – Lightly sprinkle to enhance flavor; avoid overcrowding when steaming for best results.
Let’s gather these ingredients and get ready to create a comforting, delicious feast that everyone will love!
How to Make Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
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Prep Ingredients: Begin by chopping the beef into bite-sized pieces, dicing the potatoes, and slicing the onion. Don’t forget to mince the garlic for robust flavor integration into your stew!
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Sauté Base: Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, usually about 3-5 minutes.
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Brown Beef: Raise the heat to medium-high, add the chopped beef to the pot, and sear until browned on all sides, achieving a rich color that deepens the stew’s flavor.
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Add Liquids: Carefully pour in the beef broth, red wine, and tomato paste. Stir everything together well, ensuring the goodies mix into a beautiful pot of potential.
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Season: Sprinkle in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial for building layers of flavor that make the stew so special.
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Simmer Stew: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the stew to simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. You want the beef to become tender and infused with all the savory goodness.
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Cook Potatoes: About 30 minutes before the stew is done, spread the diced potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with dried herbs. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) until golden and crispy.
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Steam Broccoli: In the last few minutes of cooking, place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam until they are bright green and tender, roughly 3-5 minutes.
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Serve: Ladle the rich beef stew into bowls and serve alongside a generous helping of herb-roasted potatoes and vibrant steamed broccoli. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
- Sear the Beef: Properly brown the beef before simmering to lock in flavor. This step creates a rich base for your stew.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer gently for 1.5-2 hours is key. It ensures the meat becomes fork-tender and full of flavor.
- Mind the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli only during the final minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper just before serving. This helps you account for flavor changes due to liquid reduction.
- Herb-Roasted Potatoes Tip: Ensure the potatoes are well-spaced on the baking sheet to achieve that perfect crispy texture—crowded potatoes steam rather than roast!
Variations & Substitutions for Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make the dish your own!
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Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
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Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs, such as sage or oregano, to create new, aromatic flavor dimensions.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat to the cozy stew.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in seasonal veggies like carrots or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and add layers of flavor.
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Red Wine Alternative: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with an additional cup of beef broth or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
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Broth Swap: For a lighter option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, while still keeping the stew deliciously savory.
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Dairy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy finish that complements the stew’s heartiness.
Let your creativity flow as you whip up this comforting dish, and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your table!
What to Serve with Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli?
Elevate your cozy meal with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures, making every bite a warming experience.
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Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory stew, this bread adds a satisfying crunch and enhances the meal’s heartiness.
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Garden Salad: A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast.
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Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits offer a comforting, fluffy companion to your stew. Dip them in the rich broth for an extra layer of satisfaction.
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Garlic Green Beans: These tender green beans sautéed with garlic and a sprinkle of lemon add freshness and a pop of color, balancing out the hearty stew.
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Mashed Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, creamy mashed cauliflower mimics traditional mashed potatoes while adding a touch of healthiness to the plate.
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Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon: A glass of red wine enhances the stew’s deep flavors, grounding the richness with its fruity notes—a delightful match for your dining experience.
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Chocolate Cake: End the meal with a rich chocolate cake; its sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the savory beef stew, ending your dinner on a joyful note.
Make Ahead Options
Tackling the Tender Beef Stew with Herb-Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli ahead of time is a fantastic way to simplify your weeknight dinner routine! You can prepare the beef stew base up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the stew gently on the stove until warmed through. For the herb-roasted potatoes, chop and season the potatoes the night before and refrigerate them; just pop them in the oven when the stew is about ready, roasting for 20-25 minutes at 425°F (220°C) for that perfect crisp. This prep not only saves you time but ensures a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort, so you can focus on family time!
How to Store and Freeze Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftover beef stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef stew in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to return its original consistency.
Potatoes & Broccoli: Roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli are best enjoyed fresh; however, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat lightly to maintain texture.
Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for this stew?
Absolutely! Beef chuck is highly recommended for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. If you prefer a different texture, you can substitute it with beef brisket, which also works wonderfully in stews.
How should I select my potatoes for roasting?
Very good question! Opt for medium-sized, firm potatoes without dark spots or blemishes. Varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet are fantastic for roasting due to their starchy nature; if you enjoy a hint of sweetness, try using sweet potatoes instead!
How can I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy! Simply place the beef stew in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to preserve freshness. The roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli can be stored in their own containers for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze the beef stew?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then ladle it into portioned containers—this makes reheating simple and convenient. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
How can I prevent my broccoli from becoming mushy?
To maintain the bright green color and firm texture of your broccoli, steam it only during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. This quick steaming will keep it vibrant and prevent overcooking, delivering that delightful crunch with every bite!
Are there any dietary considerations with this meal?
Very important! This recipe is quite flexible. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, you can easily customize it. For a dairy-free option, substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce, and ensure you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian approach. Always check for any specific allergies related to the ingredients listed!
Savory Beef with Herb-Roasted Potatoes & Steamed Broccoli Delight
Equipment
- - Large pot
- Baking sheet
- steamer basket
- - Knife
- - Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Beef Stew
- 2 pounds Beef Chuck or substitute with beef brisket
- 1 whole Onion or shallots for milder taste
- 4 cloves Garlic minced for better integration
- 4 cups Beef Broth or use vegetable broth
- 1 cup Red Wine or substitute with more beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste or crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce or soy sauce as a non-dairy alternative
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme or fresh thyme with adjusted amount
- 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary crush before use for better flavor
- 1 teaspoon Paprika or smoked paprika for enhanced flavor
- Salt & Pepper to taste
For the Herb-Roasted Potatoes
- 2 pounds Potatoes or sweet potatoes for added sweetness
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or canola oil as a neutral option
- 2 teaspoons Dried Herbs a mix of rosemary and thyme is ideal
For the Steamed Broccoli
- 4 cups Broccoli Florets fresh or frozen varieties work well
- Salt for enhancing flavor
Instructions
Instructions
- Begin by chopping the beef into bite-sized pieces, dicing the potatoes, and slicing the onion. Don’t forget to mince the garlic!
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Raise heat to medium-high, add chopped beef to the pot, and sear until browned on all sides.
- Pour in beef broth, red wine, and tomato paste. Stir everything together well.
- Sprinkle in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and let simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- About 30 minutes before stew is done, spread diced potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with herbs. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F until crispy.
- In the last few minutes, place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water, steaming until bright green and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve with herb-roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli.