Hearty Beef and Sweet Potato Stew Recipe – Comforting and Nutritious
1. Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of stew on a chilly day to warm you up from the inside out, and this beef and sweet potato stew is the perfect comfort food. With tender beef, creamy sweet potatoes, and a savory broth packed with flavor, this stew is a meal that everyone will love. It’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make and fully customizable based on your preferences.
This stew comes together in just a few simple steps and can be made in a slow cooker, on the stove, or in the oven. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a great option for a wholesome dinner. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step, from ingredient breakdown to cooking tips, serving suggestions, and storage instructions. Whether you’re making it for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish will become a go-to favorite!
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and comforting stew:
- Beef Stew Meat (1.5-2 lbs): You can use stew meat, chuck roast, or even brisket for this recipe. Cut into cubes, the beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in the broth.
- Sweet Potatoes (2 medium): Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory beef. You can also use regular potatoes if you prefer, but sweet potatoes add an extra layer of flavor.
- Carrots (2-3 medium): Carrots add a slight sweetness and color to the stew. They also bring fiber and essential nutrients to the dish.
- Onions (1 medium): Chopped onions give the stew a savory base and enhance the overall flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic adds depth and aromatic flavors to the stew.
- Beef Broth (4 cups): Beef broth is used to create the rich, savory base of the stew. You can use low-sodium broth for a lighter version or vegetable broth for a more neutral taste.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Tomato paste adds richness and a deep umami flavor to the stew.
- Herbs (1 sprig thyme, 2 bay leaves): Fresh thyme and bay leaves infuse the stew with aromatic flavors. You can also add rosemary or oregano for additional flavor variations.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, olive oil adds a bit of richness.
- Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.
- Optional Add-ins: You can also add other vegetables like celery, peas, or parsnips, or throw in some greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition.
Common Substitutions:
- Meat: If you don’t eat beef, you can substitute with lamb or chicken thighs for a lighter option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap the carrots and sweet potatoes for other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
- Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or chicken broth if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your beef and sweet potato stew:
- Prepare the Beef:
Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the paste to deepen in color. - Add the Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the beef broth and add the browned beef back into the pot. Stir in the thyme, bay leaves, and any additional seasonings you’d like. Bring to a simmer. - Add the Sweet Potatoes and Carrots:
Add the diced sweet potatoes and carrots to the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring that the vegetables are submerged in the broth. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the sweet potatoes are soft. - Check for Doneness and Adjust Seasoning:
After simmering, check the tenderness of the beef and vegetables. If the beef is not tender yet, continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. - Serve:
Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprig. Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
4. Tips and Variations
- Slow Cooker Method: To make this in a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, add everything to the slow cooker, including the beef, vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Instant Pot Method: Use the sauté function to brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic. Add the rest of the ingredients and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, then allow for a natural release.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables such as parsnips, peas, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the stew.
- Creamy Stew: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking for a creamy, velvety texture.
5. Serving Suggestions
Beef and sweet potato stew is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can pair it with these sides for a complete meal:
- Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich, savory stew.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the stew over a bed of white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair the stew with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or cauliflower for an added veggie boost.
For drinks, consider pairing the stew with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, or a refreshing iced tea.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the stew in a pot over low heat and simmer until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: This stew can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop and intensify overnight.
- Best with Fresh Herbs: If you don’t have fresh thyme or bay leaves, you can use dried versions, but fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor.
- Slow Cooker Tip: If using a slow cooker, make sure to brown the beef and sauté the vegetables beforehand for added flavor.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Calcium | 50mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Ingredients:
- 1.5-2 lbs beef stew meat
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
- 2-3 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 sprig thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1.5-2 lbs beef stew meat
- Instructions:
- Brown the beef and sauté vegetables.
- Add broth and seasonings, then simmer.
- Add sweet potatoes and carrots, simmer until tender.
- Adjust seasoning and serve.
- Brown the beef and sauté vegetables.
- Notes: Can be prepped ahead. Best with freshly shredded cheese.
- Nutrition: See nutrition table above.
🏷️ Diet Tags: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Low-Carb
🌿 Health Benefits: High in fiber, rich in vitamins A and C, good source of iron.
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or meal prepping for the week, this beef and sweet potato stew is a comforting and nutritious option that the whole family will enjoy. The tender beef, savory broth, and sweet potatoes come together in a way that’s both satisfying and wholesome. I hope you give this recipe a try—let me know how it turns out in the comments below! Enjoy!