A rich, hearty beef stew made with tender chunks of beef, autumn vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a savory broth — perfect for fall comfort food cravings.
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup red wine or 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
5 cups beef broth
4 carrots, sliced
2 parsnips, chopped
1½ lbs Yukon gold potatoes, diced
1½ cups cubed butternut squash (optional)
1 bay leaf
3–4 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Brown beef in oil in batches. Remove and set aside.
Sauté onion, then add garlic and tomato paste. Cook 2 minutes.
Deglaze with wine or vinegar. Reduce slightly.
Return beef. Add broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Simmer covered 1½ hours.
Add vegetables. Simmer uncovered 30–40 minutes until tender.
Mash some potatoes to thicken. Remove bay leaf and thyme. Season to taste.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Make ahead for deeper flavor. Freezes well. Use cornstarch to thicken if needed.