Hearty Beef and Broccoli Stew: A Comfort Food Classic

Hearty Ingredients That Bring Richness to Every Bite

Hearty beef and broccoli stew starts with quality ingredients that provide a deep, satisfying flavor profile and a comforting texture. The foundation is tender chuck beef, known for its marbled fat that slowly renders into the stew, elevating every spoonful. Fresh crisp broccoli florets add a vibrant burst of color and a slightly sweet, grassy note that contrasts beautifully with the rich beef base. Aromatic vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery build layers of natural sweetness and earthiness, while a homemade beef broth enriches the stew with umami depth unavailable in store-bought alternatives.

Incorporating garlic and ginger brightens the dish with subtle warmth and zest, harmonizing perfectly with a medley of secret seasonings that awaken every ingredient. This combination ensures that each bite bursts with richness, comfort, and nostalgic authenticity.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including slow simmer)
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Yield

Serves 6 generous portions – perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

Difficulty Level

Medium – requires patience for the long simmer, but straightforward steps make it accessible for home cooks aiming to build comfort food skills.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chuck beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cups broccoli florets, trimmed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat dry the beef cubes with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the beef: In batches, sear the beef cubes until they develop a deep golden crust, about 5-6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally. Transfer browned beef to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened and fragrant, approximately 7 minutes. Stir in garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
4. Deglaze and build flavor: Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, and soy sauce. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour in beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to release all browned bits.
5. Simmer low and slow: Return beef cubes along with any accumulated juices to the pot. Add bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover partially. Let it simmer gently for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer tenderizes the beef perfectly and develops profound depth.
6. Add broccoli: During the last 10 minutes of simmering, stir in the fresh broccoli florets. They will retain their vibrant color and slight crunch, balancing the rich beef.
7. Final seasoning: Remove bay leaf. Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Tips for Success

• For the best texture, avoid overcrowding the pan when searing beef to ensure even browning.
• Use fresh, firm broccoli to avoid a soggy result – adding it toward the end preserves its brightness and nutrients.
• You can substitute beef broth with a rich mushroom broth for a vegetarian-friendly alternative that still imparts umami.
• To prep ahead, store the stew refrigerated for up to 3 days; it reheats beautifully and flavors deepen over time.
• If the stew is too thick, thin it out with a splash of warm broth or water during reheating to maintain the ideal spoonable consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This beef and broccoli stew shines when ladled over fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, soaking into every tender bite. For a gluten-free twist, pair it with quinoa or cauliflower rice. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest to brighten the warm flavors. A side of crusty whole grain bread is perfect for sopping up the luscious broth, completing the ultimate comfort meal experience.

For a delightful contrast, serve with a crisp cucumber salad dressed lightly in rice vinegar, adding a refreshing element that cleanses the palate.

Nutritional Information

For those eager to explore more meat stews with a wholesome twist, check out our Slow Cooker Beef Stew with Rosemary. To understand the health benefits of including broccoli in your meals, visit Healthline’s comprehensive guide.