Italian Beef Stew

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich, hearty flavors of this Italian Beef Stew, a comforting dish that combines tender beef, robust tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and savory vegetables. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep, this stew simmers to perfection, creating a dish that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Serve it with crusty bread or a side of polenta for the ultimate Italian culinary experience.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-27T13:04:44.996Z

This Italian Beef Stew is a family favorite, passed down through generations, bringing warmth and comfort to every meal.

A Taste of Italy

Italian cuisine is loved worldwide for its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. This Italian Beef Stew embodies the essence of traditional Italian cooking, featuring simple, wholesome components that come together to create a deeply satisfying meal. As it simmers, the beef tenderizes while absorbing the rich flavors of tomatoes and herbs, making each bite truly delightful.

The use of aromatic herbs like oregano and basil elevates this dish, invoking the warmth and nostalgia of family gatherings in Italy. The stew is not just a meal but an experience, inviting you to slow down and relish each moment with loved ones around the table.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family dinner or planning a cozy night in, this Italian Beef Stew is the perfect accompaniment. It’s a comforting dish that feeds not only the body but also the soul, making it an excellent choice for gatherings during the cooler months. Pair it with a robust red wine to complement the stew’s rich flavors and enhance your dining experience.

Additionally, this recipe is adaptable for meal prep or batch cooking. You can make a large pot, store leftovers in the refrigerator, or freeze portions for quick meals on busy days. No matter the occasion, this stew is sure to impress.

Expert Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor, choose high-quality beef chuck that has good marbling. This will help it stay tender during the long cooking process. Don’t rush the browning step; it’s essential for developing depth in the stew’s flavor. Take the time to let it caramelize, as this step builds a rich foundation for the entire dish.

Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for an even heartier stew. You can also adjust the seasoning to your preference, possibly adding a touch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Remember, the stew will taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this hearty stew:

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting to cook for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Italian Beef Stew:

Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef pieces and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the browned beef back to the pot, along with the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 90 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or polenta.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Italian Beef Stew!

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Beef Stew is perfect on its own but can be elevated with various sides. Crusty Italian bread is ideal for soaking up the flavorful broth, giving each bite an extra boost of texture and taste. For a traditional touch, serve it alongside creamy polenta, which complements the stew beautifully while adding a comforting aspect to the meal.

For those looking to add a fresh element, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. The peppery arugula balances the rich flavors, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy. Allow the stew to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove for the best results.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to avoid drying out the stew. Heat over low until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This method ensures the flavors remain vibrant, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal just as good as when it was first made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can substitute with brisket or round, but adjust cooking time as needed.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! It freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months.