When the chill of evening settles in and you crave something warm and satisfying, few dishes answer the call quite like a hearty beef and broccoli stew. This comforting classic marries tender chunks of slow-cooked beef with vibrant, crisp broccoli, all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth. It’s a dish that transcends simple sustenance, inviting you to savor every spoonful of its deep flavors and nourishing goodness. Whether you’re seeking a family favorite to gather around the table or a solo indulgence to brighten a quiet night, this recipe promises a timeless embrace of home-cooked comfort.
Hearty beef and broccoli stew is the ultimate embodiment of comfort and bold flavor, combining tender, slow-cooked beef with vibrant, crisp broccoli in a luscious, savory broth. Rooted in classic homestyle cooking traditions, this dish has warmed countless hearts and tables with its satisfying depth and well-balanced textures. Whether you’re craving something hearty after a long day or aiming to impress with a deeply flavorful meal, this stew delivers both nourishment and delight in every spoonful.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generously
Difficulty Level
Medium – Ideal for home cooks ready to explore layered flavors and slow-simmered tenderness
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 cups broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or high-heat cooking oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth, preferably low sodium
- 1 cup water
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side until deeply golden, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Lower heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Build flavor: Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Cook for 2 minutes until the paste darkens slightly; this intensifies its sweetness and adds complexity.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Slow cook: Cover the pot and let the stew gently simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add broccoli and finish: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is vibrant and tender-crisp.
- Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, stir the cornstarch slurry into the pot and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the broth thickens to your liking.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips for Serving and Storing Your Comforting Classic
- Serving Suggestions: Ladle the stew into deep bowls for maximum comfort. Serve alongside crusty artisan bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich broth. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar can elevate the flavor profile.
- Garnishes: Finish with fresh parsley or a hint of lemon zest for brightness. Chili flakes add a gentle spicy kick if desired.
- Make-ahead & Storage: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in a slow cooker to retain tenderness.
- Ingredient Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, substitute cornstarch with potato starch or arrowroot powder. You can swap beef chuck with stew-grade brisket or short ribs for variation in texture.
- Broccoli Timing: Adding broccoli at the very end preserves its vibrant green color and slight crunch-a visual and textural highlight in this hearty dish.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beef (2 lbs) | 110 | 22g | 0g | 3.5g |
| Broccoli (2 cups) | 55 | 4.5g | 11g | 0.6g |
| Carrots & Celery (per serving) | 25 | 0.5g | 6g | 0.1g |
| Total (approx.) | 380 | 28g | 17g | 7g |
Elevate your stew experience by exploring complementary dishes in our Slow Cooker Beef Recipe Collection. For mastering beef selection and quality tips, visit Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner, your trusted authority for all things beef.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Beef and Broccoli Stew – A Comforting Classic Recipe
Q1: What makes Hearty Beef and Broccoli Stew a classic comfort food?
A1: This stew blends tender chunks of beef with fresh broccoli in a savory broth, creating a warm, soul-soothing dish perfect for chilly evenings. Its balanced mix of protein and greens satisfies both the stomach and the spirit, making it a timeless favorite.
Q2: How do I choose the best beef for this stew?
A2: Opt for cuts like chuck roast or brisket, which become beautifully tender after slow cooking. Their rich marbling infuses the stew with deep flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, elevating each spoonful.
Q3: Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! In fact, letting the stew rest overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Gently reheat it on the stove, and you’ll enjoy an even more comforting and delicious meal the next day.
Q4: What’s the secret to perfectly cooked broccoli in the stew?
A4: Add the broccoli towards the last 10 minutes of cooking. This keeps it tender-crisp and vibrant green, providing a delightful contrast to the rich, slow-cooked beef.
Q5: Are there any creative twists to this classic stew?
A5: Certainly! Experiment with adding a splash of soy sauce or a hint of ginger for an Asian-inspired flair, or toss in some mushrooms and thyme for an earthy, rustic twist. Your stew can be as traditional or adventurous as you like.
Q6: What sides pair well with Hearty Beef and Broccoli Stew?
A6: Crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes soak up the luscious broth beautifully. For something lighter, a crisp green salad offers a refreshing counterpoint to the stew’s richness.
Q7: Is this stew suitable for meal prep or freezing?
A7: Yes, it freezes wonderfully. Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, making it a convenient comfort food for busy days.
Enjoy your journey into the heartwarming world of Hearty Beef and Broccoli Stew – a dish that’s as nourishing as it is nostalgic!
Closing Remarks
As the rich aroma of tender beef mingled with vibrant broccoli fills your kitchen, this hearty stew truly embodies the essence of comfort food. More than just a meal, it’s a timeless classic that warms the soul and brings people together around the table. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or made in advance for a nourishing lunch, this beef and broccoli stew offers a delicious reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most satisfying experiences. So next time you crave a comforting embrace in a bowl, trust this recipe to deliver a taste of home with every savory spoonful.
