Grass-fed chuck has the connective tissue that melts into silk over a long braise, so the cut matters more than the price. The make-or-break step: get a real dark sear on the beef in batches before any liquid goes in, because that crust is where the depth comes from.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook150 min
Makes6 servings
CuisineAmerican
Cost$$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for6servings
Beef chuck
A well-raised chuck roast, cubed; it's built for the long, slow cook.
Sear in batchesPat the beef dry, salt it, and brown it hard in oil in batches so the pot never crowds. You want a deep brown crust, not gray steamed meat.
Build the baseSet the beef aside. Soften the onion and garlic, scraping up the browned bits, then stir in the crushed tomatoes.
Braise lowReturn the beef, add the broth, and bring to a bare simmer. Cover and hold it at a whisper for 90 minutes.
Add roots and finishAdd the potatoes and carrots and cook uncovered another 45 minutes until the beef pulls apart at a fork. Salt to taste.
Can you make Beef Stew in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Beef Stew? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Beef Stew ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Beef Stew gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Beef Stew vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
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