A Cozy Bowl of Comfort Awaits!

Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the rich aroma of beef simmering in red wine, garlic, and fresh herbs. French-Style Beef Stew isn’t just any stew; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that feels like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavors that make you want to savor every spoonful. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that lets you set it and forget it while enjoying your day!

Why Make This Recipe

This stew is a no-brainer for several reasons:

Easy Cleanup: Since it all cooks in one pot, you won’t have a mountain of dishes waiting for you. Who has time for that?
Family-Friendly and Budget-Friendly: Beef chuck is affordable and, let’s face it, everyone loves a good stew. Even the picky eaters will appreciate this cozy dish.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead for those busy weeknights and enjoy how flavors meld and improve after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
2 cups red wine
4 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Time to bring this beauty to life with these simple steps!

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef chunks on all sides.
Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant (your kitchen will love you for this).
Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in red wine and beef broth. Add the carrots, potatoes, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy warm!

How to Make French-Style Beef Stew (Overview)

Ready for a breakdown? It’s as easy as 1-2-3 (or 5)!

First, you want to brown your beef — this step adds a depth of flavor that’s oh-so-important. Next, toss in your aromatic ingredients like onion and garlic. Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Then, blend everything together with some beef broth and red wine, let it bubble away, and voilà! You’ll have a delightful stew in no time.

How to Serve French-Style Beef Stew

When it comes to serving, think cozy! Ladle the stew into deep bowls, allowing the vibrant colors of the carrots and potatoes to shine through. Pair it with a crusty French baguette to soak up all that delicious sauce. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the table, ready to dig in. 😋

How to Store French-Style Beef Stew

Got leftovers? You’re in luck! This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Easy peasy!

Tips to Make French-Style Beef Stew

Here are a few insider tricks to elevate your stew game:

Use a good quality red wine — it makes a huge difference.
Consider swapping out potatoes for sweet potatoes for a fun twist.
Want even more flavor? Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding in some mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and depth. Prefer a vegan version? Swap the beef for hearty mushroom chunks and use vegetable broth instead. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I make this stew a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes better after a day in the fridge as the flavors develop.

What can I use instead of red wine?
You can use beef broth instead, but the wine adds a lovely depth. If you’re avoiding alcohol completely, just stick with broth!

Can I freeze this stew?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!