beef stew with dumplings

This beef stew with dumplings is the epitome of comfort food. Slow-cooked in a rich brown gravy, it combines tender stew meat with a hearty mix of vegetables, making it a meal that warms both the body and soul.

The addition of fluffy potato dumplings adds a delightful twist, soaking up the savory broth while adding texture. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners and will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas all day long.

With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this crockpot recipe is an easy way to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying dinner. Just set it and forget it, then indulge in the delicious results!

Beef Stew with Dumplings – Ingredients

For a hearty beef stew with dumplings, tender stew meat or chuck roast forms the flavorful base, simmering in a savory beef broth. Diced tomatoes and tomato paste create a rich, tangy foundation, while garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves infuse the stew with depth.

Carrots, celery, and peas add a burst of color and earthiness, complementing the beef perfectly. The dumplings, made with fluffy mashed potatoes, flour, and a touch of parmesan, bring a soft, comforting texture, soaking up the delicious broth with each bite.

Recipe Tips

1. Brown the Beef in Batches
   For optimal flavor and texture, avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the beef. Working in batches allows the beef to sear properly, locking in its juices and creating a rich, caramelized crust. This step adds depth to the stew, ensuring each bite is bursting with savory goodness.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dumplings
   When preparing the potato dumplings, mix the ingredients until just combined. Over-mixing can cause the dumplings to become dense and rubbery instead of light and fluffy. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add a little water, just enough to bring the mixture together.
3. Slow Cooking for Tender Stew
   The longer the stew cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. If you have the time, opt for the low setting on your crockpot and let it cook for 8 hours. Slow cooking enhances the richness of the broth and helps the beef become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

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What to Serve with Recipe

1. Crusty Bread
   Pair this comforting beef stew with a warm, crusty loaf of bread. Its crunchy exterior and soft interior are perfect for dipping into the rich gravy of the stew. Try a rustic French baguette or a hearty sourdough to complement the dish’s flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Serve your beef stew alongside a simple dish of roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or potatoes. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables provide a lovely contrast to the rich stew and enhance the overall meal experience.
3. Green Salad
   A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the hearty stew. The acidity of the dressing helps cut through the richness of the dish, making each bite feel more vibrant and well-rounded.

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FAQ

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, you can substitute the stew meat or chuck roast with other cuts like brisket or round roast. However, chuck roast is known for its tenderness when slow-cooked, making it an ideal choice for stews.
2. Can I freeze the beef stew?
   Yes, the stew can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the dumplings. Transfer cooled stew to airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the dumplings in advance, roll them into balls, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to add them to the stew. This will save you time on cooking day.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
   Definitely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or turnips. Just keep in mind that root vegetables may require slightly different cooking times, so check for doneness before serving.

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Beef Stew with Dumplings

This rich and hearty beef stew, slow-cooked to perfection in a savory brown gravy, is complemented by fluffy potato dumplings that add a comforting touch. It’s a perfect, warming dish for chilly days, offering a satisfying meal that will fill your home with delightful aromas.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course crockpot recipes, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• For the Stew:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 pounds stew meat or chuck roast cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 6 oz can tomato paste
• 4 large carrots peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 celery stalks sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 fresh sprig
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Fresh parsley for garnish optional
• For the Dumplings:
• 2 large Russet potatoes peeled and cooked
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 large egg beaten
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 sprig fresh thyme minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water as needed to bind the dumplings

Instructions

 

• Brown the Meat:
• Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the beef cubes with the flour, then brown them in batches. Take care not to overcrowd the pan, as this prevents proper searing, allowing the meat to lock in its natural juices and develop rich flavor.
• Combine Stew Ingredients:
• Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a 7+ quart crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, carrots, celery, peas, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine. Cover the crockpot with the lid and set the temperature to high for 4 to 6 hours, or low for 8 hours. For a more tender result, opt for the longer, slower cooking time.
• Prepare the Dumplings:
• While the stew is cooking, mash the cooked potatoes. In a separate bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with flour, baking powder, egg, Parmesan cheese, oil, garlic powder, thyme, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are just incorporated. If necessary, add a small amount of water to form a dough that can be shaped into golf ball-sized dumplings. Use a medium-sized cookie scoop for uniformity. Refrigerate the dumplings until ready to add them to the stew.
• Finish the Stew:
• One hour before serving, whisk together the cornstarch and water, then stir the mixture into the stew to thicken the broth. Gently add the dumplings, pressing them slightly into the liquid to ensure they do not stick together. Continue cooking for another hour, allowing the dumplings to steam and soak up the flavors of the stew.
• Serve and Garnish:
• When ready to serve, sprinkle fresh parsley over the stew for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Store any leftover beef stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the stew in the microwave or stovetop. To microwave, heat for 30 seconds, stir, and continue heating until warmed through. For stovetop, simmer over medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: For freezing, it’s best to freeze the stew without the dumplings. Store the cooled stew in freezer-friendly containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful Tips:

Avoid overcrowding the beef while browning it to ensure that it sears properly and locks in its juices.
For fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough, as this could result in dense dumplings.
If desired, you can substitute part of the beef broth with a Stout or Pale Ale for a deeper, more complex flavor.

Keyword Beef Stew with Dumplings