Beef Stew with Potato Topping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Hearty: The beef stew itself is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth that’s full of depth.

• Savory & Creamy Topping: The mashed potato topping adds a creamy, fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory stew underneath.

• Comforting & Filling: It's the kind of dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and warm, ideal for cold evenings or when you need a pick-me-up.

• One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze after a delicious meal.

• Customizable: You can easily adjust the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat (cut into chunks)

• 1 large onion (chopped)

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 carrots (peeled and sliced)

• 2 potatoes (peeled and diced)

• 1 cup peas

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced, for mashed topping)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• ½ cup milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.

3. Simmer Stew: Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, carrots, diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

4. Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While the stew is simmering, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth and creamy.

5. Assemble the Dish: Once the beef stew is cooked, add the peas and stir well. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top of the stew.

6. Finish: Place the pot in the oven under the broiler for 3-5 minutes to lightly brown the mashed potatoes.

7. Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables, like parsnips or celery, for additional flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the oven.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the stew in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the mashed potatoes have hardened, add a splash of milk to loosen them.

FAQs

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! You can easily make this stew in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

2. How can I make the mashed potatoes smoother?

For smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill. This will give you an ultra-creamy texture.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables with frozen ones. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen vegetables cook faster.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk in place of the regular butter and milk.

5. Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?

You can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket, but be sure to cut them into bite-sized chunks for easy eating.

6. How long does beef stew need to simmer?

Beef stew needs to simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours to become tender. You can simmer it longer for even more flavor, just be sure to check the liquid levels.

7. Is it necessary to brown the beef first?

Browning the beef enhances the flavor of the stew, but you can skip this step if you're short on time. The stew will still taste great.

8. What can I serve this stew with?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

9. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Beef stew tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead meal. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

10. How do I thicken the stew?

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Beef Stew with Potato Topping is a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, it's a meal that will please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings!