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Recipe by:

Elena SMITH

Cozy Bacon Beef Stew

A delicious Bacon Beef Stew made with tender beef, crispy bacon, and root vegetables, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Group: Bacon and Beef
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 2 lb. beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Group: Seasoning and Thickening
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
Group: Liquids
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (dry variety)
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
Group: Vegetables
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 stalks celery, sliced
  • 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
Group: Herbs
Group: Garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or heavy pot

Method
 

  1. Sizzle the bacon in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with flour. Brown the beef in batches in the same pot with the bacon fat until browned on all sides.
  3. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in beef broth and red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Add the reserved bacon and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
  6. About 30 minutes before serving, add diced Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot.
  7. Adjust seasoning if necessary, discard bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley alongside crusty bread.

Notes

Each time I make this Bacon Beef Stew, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from slow-cooking. The gentle simmer not only develops incredible depth of flavor but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table, especially during the holidays.