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; 1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making my Cozy Beef and Mushroom Stew on chilly evenings when I crave something warm and comforting. This hearty dish combines tender beef with earthy mushrooms, and is simmered to perfection in a rich broth. Each spoonful brings warmth and flavors that remind me of home-cooked meals shared with family. The lovely aroma fills my kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Pair it with crusty bread, and you've got a meal that warms both the heart and the body.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:29:35.770Z

When I first tried making this Cozy Beef and Mushroom Stew, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together during the long simmering process. Using quality beef and fresh mushrooms is key, as they absorb the rich herbs and spices beautifully. I like to sear the beef first to lock in the juices, ensuring every bite is deliciously tender.

One of my favorite things about this stew is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to throw in some seasonal vegetables like carrots or potatoes. This not only adds variety but also enhances the nutrition, making it a well-rounded dish that comforts the soul on any winter evening.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich umami flavors from beef and mushrooms
Perfectly hearty for cold evenings
Versatile - add your favorite vegetables

The Perfect Beef Choice

When selecting beef for your stew, I recommend using beef chuck. It's an inexpensive cut that becomes incredibly tender and flavorful as it simmers. The marbling in chuck helps to provide a rich, juicy stew. Avoid leaner cuts like sirloin, as they can dry out when cooked for long periods. Cutting the beef into 1-inch cubes allows for even cooking and ensures that each piece absorbs the stew's savory flavors.

If you're looking for a healthier option, you might consider using leaner cuts such as brisket or round, but take extra care to not overcook them, as they can become tough. Regardless of the cut, make sure to sear the beef properly; this step enhances the overall flavor by creating the foundational browning that infuses the stew.

Mushroom Selection and Preparation

For this stew, I prefer using a mix of mushrooms to add depth to the flavor profile. While button mushrooms are classic, incorporating shiitake or cremini mushrooms can elevate the dish with their distinct umami notes. Slice them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly; larger pieces can take longer to soften and incorporate into the stew's texture.

Prior to adding them to the pot, make sure to clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth instead of rinsing them under water to avoid them becoming soggy. Sautéing them until they release their moisture not only intensifies their flavor but also contributes to the stew's overall richness. Cook them until they begin to turn golden brown, which usually takes about 5 minutes, before progressing to the next step.

Serving and Storage Tips

This stew is delightful when served with crusty bread for dipping, but it's also fantastic over creamy mashed potatoes or hearty rice. If you're having guests, consider garnishing each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. You can even add a dollop of sour cream to enhance the creaminess.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently on the stove over low heat to avoid breaking down the beef too much.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

Steps

Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 more minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot, then add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and beef broth. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.

Simmer the Stew

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Thicken (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the stew hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a delightful meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, let the stew sit for a while before serving
it tastes even better the next day! Experiment with adding a splash of red wine for richness.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize your stew by adding other vegetables such as carrots or potatoes. Chopped carrots will add a touch of sweetness, while cubed potatoes will help thicken the stew and make it even heartier. Be mindful of adding these items; you may need to adjust cooking time slightly so they don't become overly soft or mushy.

For those looking to make this stew a bit spicier, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. This will give the dish a subtle warmth without overpowering the rich flavors of the beef and mushrooms.

Thickening Techniques

If you wish to thicken your stew without using flour, consider pureeing a portion of it using an immersion blender. This technique retains all the flavors while creating a thicker consistency. Alternatively, you could add a few diced potatoes that will break down and naturally thicken the stew during cooking.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Simply mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry and add it to the stew near the end of the cooking time. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens up.

Cooking Techniques and Timing

Timing is essential in this recipe to achieve the perfect texture; a gentle simmer is preferred. High heat can cook the beef too quickly, making it tough, while a low simmer ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. Stir occasionally and check for doneness, so you can gauge if it needs additional cooking time based on your preference for tenderness.

Another tip is to let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes off heat before serving. This resting period not only allows the flavors to harmonize further but also makes it easier to serve as the stew thickens slightly upon standing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can sear the beef and then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Carrots, potatoes, or peas work well. Just be mindful of cooking times.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Yes, simply omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch.