Homemade Old Fashioned Beef Stew Recipe for a Hearty Meal

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Old-Fashioned Beef Stew on a chilly evening. This Weight Watchers version keeps all the classic flavors while lightening it up with healthier ingredients and portion control. With tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s a one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and points-friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat (trimmed of fat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 medium carrots (peeled and sliced into chunks)
• 3 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water, for thickening)

Instructions

Sear the Beef

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pot until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Build the Stew Base

1. Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and smoked paprika.
2. Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.

Simmer the Stew

1. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Thicken the Stew

1. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the stew and cook for another 5–10 minutes until thickened.
2. Add the frozen peas (if using) and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW Points: 4–6 (depending on your plan)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort: The rich, hearty flavors of traditional beef stew without the excess calories or fat.
2. One-Pot Wonder: Easy to prepare and clean up, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
3. Customizable: Adjust the vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Pro Tips for Perfect Stew

• Choose the Right Beef: Use lean stew meat or cut your own from a chuck roast for better control over fat content.
• Layer the Flavors: Browning the beef and deglazing the pot adds depth to the broth.
• Don’t Rush: Allowing the stew to simmer for a longer time ensures tender beef and fully developed flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Pairings: Serve with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a light side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

This Old-Fashioned Beef Stew proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health. With a deliciously rich broth, hearty vegetables, and tender beef, it’s a dish that warms both body and soul. Perfect for meal prepping or sharing with loved ones, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting classic, guilt-free!