Cozy Beef And Mushroom Stew

Name: Cozy Beef And Mushroom Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Meals

I absolutely love making this Cozy Beef and Mushroom Stew when the weather turns chilly. The rich aroma as it simmers is just delightful, and the combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs warms my soul. This recipe is a great way to use up any mushrooms I have lying around, and it’s a comforting meal for family dinners. Nothing beats a warm bowl of stew with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:53:35.309Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I wanted to create a stew that not only filled the belly but also the heart. I spent some time experimenting with different herbs and seasonings, ultimately using a blend of thyme and rosemary that perfectly complemented the beef and mushrooms. It took a few tries, but I finally found the magic balance that makes this stew irresistible.

What makes this recipe truly special is the slow cooking process. By letting it simmer for two hours, the beef becomes incredibly tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Serve it piping hot with some fresh bread, and you'll see why it's a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deeply savory flavor profile that satisfies on cold nights
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
Hearty mushrooms adding depth and texture

The Importance of Browning Meat

Browning the beef is a crucial step that enhances the depth of flavor in this Cozy Beef and Mushroom Stew. When you sear the beef cubes, you're not just adding color; you're creating a rich base through the Maillard reaction. This process transforms the surface of the meat, imparting a deliciously complex flavor that integrates beautifully into the stew. Make sure to let the beef brown for about 4-5 minutes on each side, allowing it to develop a nice crust without overcrowding the pot.

If your pot is too crowded, the meat may steam rather than brown, resulting in a more muted flavor. To avoid this, work in batches if necessary. Once the beef is nicely browned and removed from the pot, those delicious browned bits left behind are perfect for deglazing in the next step, helping to maximize flavor in every spoonful.

Selecting and Preparing Mushrooms

Mushrooms are not just an addition; they are a key player in this stew. Their earthy flavor contributes a wonderful umami essence that complements the beef beautifully. You can use any variety you have on hand—button mushrooms work great, but shiitake or cremini will add additional depth. Always ensure to clean your mushrooms properly; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is typically sufficient as rinsing can lead to a soggy texture.

When slicing your mushrooms, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Ideally, the slices should be about 1/4 inch thick to balance cooking time and texture. Adding them after the onions and garlic not only flavors the stew but also allows them to caramelize slightly before the liquids are added, enhancing their rich taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great aspects of this stew is that it's perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors only deepen and improve after a day in the refrigerator. After cooking, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easier reheating later on.

When reheating, do so gently on low heat to preserve texture. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the stew if it thickens too much in the fridge. If the flavors seem a bit muted after storage, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish and bring everything back to life.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure everything is prepped and ready before you begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect stew:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, then add the carrots and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy the warm comfort of your homemade stew!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf while the stew simmers.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly comforting meal, serve this beef and mushroom stew with a slice of warm crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth and provides a delightful contrast to the tender beef. You can even toast the bread with a bit of garlic butter for extra flavor.

If you're looking to jazz it up, consider pairing the stew with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A side of roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables can also be a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.

Variations You Can Try

Feel free to customize this stew based on your preferences or what you have available. For a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes in the sauté step. Switching up the vegetables can also bring new life to this dish—potatoes, parsnips, or even green beans can be tasty variations.

For a lighter version, you can substitute the red wine with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar to maintain some acidity without the alcohol.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat in this stew?

Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or even chicken, but cooking times may vary.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to add potatoes, peas, or any other veggies you enjoy in your stew!