Beef Stew with Potato Topping

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There’s something about a rich, slow-simmered beef stew that brings comfort with every bite. This Beef Stew with Potato Topping is one of those hearty meals that fills your kitchen with warmth and your plate with flavor. Tender chunks of beef and caramelized onions are nestled in a savory tomato-based sauce, topped with crisp, golden potatoes arranged like a crown. It’s a meal that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or impressing guests without too much fuss.

What makes this dish extra special is the rustic yet elegant presentation. The potato topping turns a simple stew into a beautiful, bake-to-serve masterpiece. Whether you add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, every bite offers a delicious balance of texture and taste. This is comfort food with flair—just the way we like it.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

The best potatoes for this dish are Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds hold their shape well and have a naturally buttery flavor that compliments the savory stew. Russets, on the other hand, crisp beautifully on the edges and soak up the juices underneath. For the prettiest presentation and rich flavor, go for thin, evenly sliced potatoes arranged in overlapping circles.

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Ingredients for the Beef Stew with Potato Topping

• Beef chuck or stew meat: This cut becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when cooked low and slow. A must-have for rich stew flavor.
• Yellow onions: Adds sweetness and depth. Caramelizing them first brings out even more flavor.
• Garlic cloves: For that essential aroma and warmth in the base.
• Tomato paste: Deepens the sauce with rich umami.
• Beef broth: The savory liquid that binds everything together.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami punch.
• Bay leaves & fresh thyme: For an aromatic, earthy touch.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the stew base and the potatoes.
• Olive oil or butter: Used for searing and layering flavor.
• Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: Thinly sliced and arranged on top, they bake to golden perfection.
• Sour cream (optional): Adds a creamy finish that balances the hearty stew.

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How To Make the Beef Stew with Potato Topping

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating a bit of olive oil or butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Add the beef chunks in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the deep flavor begins.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pan, add sliced onions and cook until golden and caramelized. Add garlic toward the end and sauté for just another minute.

Step 3: Build the Stew Base

Stir in tomato paste, letting it cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Return the seared beef to the pan and bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Slow Simmer

Let the stew simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Prepare the Potato Topping

While the stew is simmering, peel and slice your potatoes thinly. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the stew to an oven-safe baking dish. Arrange the sliced potatoes on top in overlapping circles. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crisp.

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How to Serve and Store Beef Stew with Potato Topping

Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley. Pair it with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Leftovers? Even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy potato topping, or gently on the stovetop if you’re short on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the stew base a day ahead, refrigerate, and just add the potato topping before baking.

Can I use ground beef instead?

You can, but the texture and depth of flavor won’t be the same. Stew beef is preferred for its tenderness after long cooking.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

A heavy skillet and an oven-safe baking dish work just fine. Just transfer the stew before baking.

Can I freeze it?

The stew base freezes well, but the potatoes don’t reheat nicely from frozen. If freezing, do so before adding the topping.

What herbs work well with this?

Thyme and bay leaves are classic, but rosemary or a sprinkle of parsley also work beautifully.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils, use veggie broth, and skip the Worcestershire or use a vegan version.

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Want More Savory Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into heartwarming meals like this, here are more cozy favorites from the site:

• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta for an indulgent, cheesy comfort meal.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce to add a creamy twist to your dinner game.
• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce when you’re craving that cheesy nostalgia.
• Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage for slow-cooked flavor with little effort.
• Deep Hamburger Sausage Pepperoni Pie for the ultimate meat-lover’s bake.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with Yukon Gold or Russet? Did you sneak in extra garlic or top it with cheese?

I love seeing your twists on these classics. Questions and feedback are always welcome—let’s inspire each other in the kitchen!

More comfort food recipes shared daily on Pinterest @Life with Nina

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