Beef Stew for a Crowd: Delicious Recipes and Tips for Serving a Large Group

Beef Stew for a Crowd is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Imagine a rich, hearty stew simmering on the stove, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that beckons friends and family to the table. This dish has a long-standing history, often associated with communal meals and family gatherings, making it a staple in many cultures around the world. People love Beef Stew for a Crowd not only for its robust flavors and tender chunks of beef but also for its convenience; it can be prepared in large batches, allowing you to serve a satisfying meal without the stress of constant cooking. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone and create lasting memories around the dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large carrots, sliced
• 4 large potatoes, diced
• 2 cups celery, chopped
• 1 cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Beef

1. Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear when we cook them. 2. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. I like to do this step early on to let the seasoning penetrate the meat. 3. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add the beef. 4. Working in batches, add the beef cubes to the pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the browned beef and set it aside on a plate.

Building the Flavor Base

5. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 6. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 7. Next, toss in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped celery. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This will help to soften the vegetables slightly and enhance their flavors.

Deglazing the Pot

8. If you’re using red wine, pour it into the pot now. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the stew. 9. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly. If you’re not using wine, you can skip this step and move on to the next.

Combining Ingredients

10. Return the browned beef to the pot along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. 11. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Mix everything well to combine. 12. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process will tenderize the beef and meld all the flavors together.

Final Touches

13. After the stew has simmered, check the beef for tenderness. It should be fork-tender and easy to break apart. If it’s not quite there yet, let it simmer for an additional 30 minutes. 14. If you’re adding frozen peas, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll add a nice pop of color and sweetness to the stew. 15. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving the Stew

16. Ladle the beef stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of brightness. 17. This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.

Storing and Reheating

18. If you have leftovers (which I hope you do, because it’s even better the next day!), let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. 19. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally until heated through. Enjoy this hearty beef stew with your friends and family! It’s perfect for gatherings, and I

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the world of Beef Stew for a Crowd, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress family and friends with a hearty, comforting dish. The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a warm and inviting meal that is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or even a cozy night in. One of the best things about this beef stew is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding seasonal vegetables like carrots and parsnips for a touch of sweetness, or throw in some mushrooms for an earthy depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the beef for chicken or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, alongside crusty bread, or even with a side of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious gravy. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Beef Stew for a Crowd a try. I promise it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire, bringing warmth and joy to your table. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this comforting dish together! Happy cooking! Print