Go Back
–+ servings
Italian Beef Stew

Italian Beef Stew

Savor the rich flavors of Italian Beef Stew, a hearty dish perfect for family gatherings. Slow-cooked to tender perfection with savory herbs and tomatoes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Cooking Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 115 g turkey bacon or pancetta diced (optional)
  • 1.4 kg beef chuck or brisket cut into large chunks
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup onion diced
  • 1 cup carrots diced
  • 1 cup celery diced
  • 1 tbsp garlic minced
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes in can
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 leaves bay leaves

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Slow cooker (optional)

Method
 

  1. Crisp up the turkey bacon or pancetta in a large oven-safe pot over medium heat, then remove and set aside.
  2. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
  3. Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking until softened and slightly caramelized, about 7–10 minutes.
  4. Toss in the garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pot, then add herbs and the reserved bacon. Nestle the beef back into the pot.
  6. Cook by one of three methods: simmer on low heat for 2–4 hours, transfer to a 275°F (140°C) oven for 2–4 hours, or use a slow cooker on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours.
  7. Season with additional salt and pepper before serving, and remove herb stems and bay leaves. Garnish with grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 32gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 80IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 20mg

Notes

You can substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon or omit it entirely. For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms or lentils in place of the meat. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as you go for best results! This stew keeps well; store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Leftover stew can taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Pair with crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or polenta for a complete meal.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!