Baked Beef Stew
Warm, comforting, and bursting with rich flavors, baked beef stew is the ultimate dish to cozy up with on a chilly day. This hearty one-pot meal combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs, slow-cooked to perfection in the oven. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome family dinner or a satisfying meal to impress guests, this baked beef stew recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, preheat your oven and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade stew that will fill your home with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and place a large oven-proof pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and brown the meat in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned meat and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the onions until they are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for a few minutes until the flour is well incorporated and slightly browned.
5. Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and the browned beef back into the pot. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the stew to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
8. Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Return the pot to the oven and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
9. Season the stew with additional salt and pepper if needed. Discard the bay leaves before serving.
10. Serve the baked beef stew hot with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The aroma of this baked beef stew will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation, making it the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a special gathering with loved ones. Feel free to customize the vegetables and herbs to suit your preferences, and don’t hesitate to make a larger batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. With its tender beef, savory broth, and tender vegetables, this baked beef stew is a classic comfort food that never fails to delight. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade meal that brings everyone together around the table.
