Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings
A Cozy Bowl to Warm Your Soul
Is there anything more inviting than the aroma of slow-cooked beef stew wafting through your home? Imagine rich, tender beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy, cheesy dumplings all bubbling together – pure comfort on a cold evening! This recipe for Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings elevates classic comfort food into a soul-warming delight that’s surprisingly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight.
Why Make This Recipe
You might be wondering why this stew is worth your time. Well, grab your spoon because here are a few reasons this dish will win over your heart (and your stomach):
- Easy Cleanup: One pot magic means less scrubbing for you after dinner—who doesn’t love that?
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the fluffy dumplings, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to dive into a bowl of cheesy goodness?
- Affordably Delicious: With budget-friendly ingredients, you can fill up on comfort without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions
Ready to dive into this flavorful journey? Here’s how to get it done:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, brown the beef cubes over medium heat.
- Add Veggies: Throw in the onions and garlic, cooking until they soften.
- Mix it Up: Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring this hearty mix to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is super tender.
- Dumpling Time: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, cheddar cheese, and chopped herbs. Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Dropping Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the stew. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve and Savor: Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!
How to Make Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings (Overview)
Let’s break it down, step-by-step! First, you brown that delicious beef until it’s golden brown perfection. Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Next, toss in the veggies and broth, and let it simmer like you mean it. Meanwhile, whip up your cheesy dumpling goodness. Once combined, drop them over the top and wait for the magic to happen. Voila, comfort in a bowl, ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings
Imagine serving this dish in a big, rustic bowl—rich, golden-brown beef mingling with vibrant carrots and potatoes. The dumplings create a soft, pillowy cloud on top, inviting you to dive in. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of color and aroma that screams homemade comfort. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that savory broth. Trust me, your dinner guests will be singing your praises! 🎶
How to Store Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This stew keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Pop it into an airtight container for easy storing. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just remember to label it so you don’t forget what’s hiding in the back of your freezer. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Tips to Make Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings
- Choose the Right Cut: Go for beef chuck; it’s flavorful and perfect for slow cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Letting the stew simmer until the beef is super tender is key to depth of flavor.
- Fluffy Dumplings: Don’t over-mix the dumpling batter; it should be lumpy for the best texture.
- Herb Power: Add seasonal herbs to enhance flavors based on your mood!
- Make it a Meal: Pair it with a side salad and a glass of red wine for the ultimate cozy dinner experience.
Variation
Feel like switching things up? Here are some easy variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the stew for a flavor pop!
- Vegan Option: Swap beef for hearty mushrooms and veggies, and use vegetable broth instead.
- Herb Lovers: Experiment with different fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even dill for a new twist!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s a cut that benefits from slow cooking, like brisket or round.
How can I make this stew ahead of time?
You can make it a day or two ahead of time—just reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve!
Can I freeze the dumplings?
The dumplings are best fresh, but you can freeze them separately; just add them to the stew as you reheat!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Beef Stew with Cheddar Herb Dumplings
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, brown the beef cubes over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic, cooking until they soften.
- Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, carrots, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring this mix to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is super tender.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, cheddar cheese, and chopped herbs.
- Stir in the milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter over the stew.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!
