Best Beef Stew and Rice

Update : January 15, 2026

Delicious bowl of beef stew served with rice, garnished with fresh herbs.

Why Make This Recipe

Beef stew and rice is a classic comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. This recipe brings together tender beef, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice, making it a complete meal in one bowl. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

How to Make Best Beef Stew and Rice

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks
4 carrots, sliced
4 potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup rice
2 cups water

Directions:

In a large pot, brown the beef chunks over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Stir in the carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the beef broth and red wine, bringing to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours until the beef is tender.
In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions.
Serve the beef stew over the rice.

How to Serve Best Beef Stew and Rice

Serve the beef stew in bowls, making sure to add a generous portion of rice underneath. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra touch. This meal pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

How to Store Best Beef Stew and Rice

To store leftover beef stew and rice, let them cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The stew can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until warm.

Tips to Make Best Beef Stew and Rice

Use quality beef: Choosing good quality beef chuck will enhance the flavor of your stew.
Cut vegetables evenly: This helps them cook evenly.
Be patient: Allowing the stew to simmer for a full two hours will make the beef extra tender and flavorful.

Variation

You can customize your beef stew by adding different vegetables like peas, green beans, or even mushrooms. If you prefer a thick stew, you can mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness and flavor.
Is it necessary to use red wine?
- No, you can skip the wine if you don’t want to use it. Just add extra beef broth for flavor.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.