Introduction

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of One-Pot Autumn Beef Stew to warm your soul. This quintessential fall dish combines tender beef, seasonal vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich, savory broth. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly evenings and a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn.

Why is it Perfect for You?

Enjoy comforting fall beef stew recipes with seasonal vegetables easy beef stew crockpot dinners hearty autumn comfort soups for family meals fall dinner cozy recipes with this simple yet satisfying dish. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s not only delicious but also convenient, making it ideal for busy families or anyone seeking a fuss-free, wholesome meal.

Ingredients List

◾ 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
◾ 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
◾ 2 tbsp olive oil
◾ 1 large onion, diced
◾ 3 garlic cloves, minced
◾ 2 carrots, sliced
◾ 2 celery stalks, chopped
◾ 2 medium potatoes, cubed
◾ 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
◾ 1 cup red wine (optional)
◾ 4 cups beef broth
◾ 2 bay leaves
◾ 1 sprig fresh rosemary
◾ 2 sprigs fresh thyme
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 1 cup frozen peas

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by tossing the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper. This will help thicken the stew and create a beautiful crust on the meat. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring each piece gets a lovely caramelization. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors in your stew.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, set it aside and add the onions to the pot. Cook until they’re translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma will be intoxicating, filling your kitchen with the promise of a delicious meal to come.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build the Base

If using, pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up all the flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly. Then add the beef broth, bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and add the browned beef back into the pot.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. After this time, add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and butternut squash. Continue cooking for another 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll cook quickly while retaining their vibrant color. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaves and herb sprigs before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth of autumn in every bite.

Nutritional Information

◾ Calories: 450 per serving
◾ Protein: 35g
◾ Carbohydrates: 30g
◾ Fat: 20g
◾ Fiber: 5g
◾ Sugar: 4g

Calories per Person

Each serving of this One-Pot Autumn Beef Stew contains approximately 450 calories, making it a satisfying meal that won’t break your calorie bank.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this stew even healthier, consider these modifications:

◾ Use lean beef or substitute with turkey
◾ Increase the vegetable content and reduce meat portion
◾ Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for added nutrients
◾ Skip the flour and use pureed vegetables to thicken the stew

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty stew with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of quinoa. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp autumn salad can add freshness to the meal. For a truly cozy experience, enjoy your stew by the fireplace with a glass of robust red wine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

◾ Overcrowding the pot when browning the meat
◾ Skipping the browning step altogether
◾ Adding all vegetables at the beginning, leading to mushiness
◾ Over-salting early in the cooking process

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the meat and sauté the aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Is it necessary to use wine in the recipe?
While wine adds depth to the flavor, it’s not essential. You can substitute with additional beef broth or use a splash of balsamic vinegar for complexity.

Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes would all work well in this stew.

How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?
Create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the simmering stew and cook for a few minutes until it thickens.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Autumn Beef Stew is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fall flavors and the comfort of home cooking. With its rich flavors, tender meat, and colorful vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your loved ones, ladle out generous portions, and savor the warmth of autumn in every spoonful.