Oven-Baked Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

 

Oven-Baked Hearty Beef and Mushroom Stew

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a rich, oven-baked beef and mushroom stew. This one-pot wonder is slow-cooked to perfection, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that feels both rustic and indulgent. The oven does all the heavy lifting, turning tough beef cuts into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while mushrooms, vegetables, and aromatic herbs infuse the broth with deep, savory flavor. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or even meal prep, this stew is the definition of hearty, home-cooked goodness.

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Ingredients (and why they matter)

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes – The marbled fat in chuck ensures juicy, tender bites after long, slow cooking.

2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps sear the beef, locking in flavor and building a base for the stew.

1 large onion, diced – Adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the stew with a savory, aromatic kick.

3 large carrots, sliced – Provide a hint of natural sweetness and balance to the richness of the beef.

2 celery stalks, chopped – Bring freshness and subtle earthy flavor.

1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, sliced – Add a meaty, umami-rich layer that makes the stew extra hearty.

2 tablespoons tomato paste – Creates richness and a slightly tangy undertone.

1 cup red wine (optional, but recommended) – Deepens the flavor and deglazes the pan beautifully.

4 cups beef broth – The liquid backbone that ties everything together.

2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) – Adds warm, earthy notes.

2 bay leaves – Enhance the complexity of the broth.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.

2 tablespoons flour (optional) – Helps thicken the stew if desired.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). This low, slow heat is key to tender beef and rich flavor.

2. Sear the beef: In a heavy oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches (avoid overcrowding) and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. Build the flavor base: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their juices.

4. Add tomato paste and deglaze: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor. Pour in the red wine, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

5. Combine and simmer: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Bake to perfection: Cover with a lid and transfer the pot to the oven. Bake for 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together.

7. Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons flour with ¼ cup water to form a slurry. Stir into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

8. Serve and enjoy: Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves before serving. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot simplicity – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

Tender beef guaranteed – Oven-baking ensures the meat falls apart effortlessly.

Layered flavors – From wine and herbs to mushrooms and tomato paste, every spoonful is deeply satisfying.

Make-ahead friendly – This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Stew

Choose the right beef: Cuts like chuck or brisket are best for slow cooking.

Don’t skip browning the beef: This step builds the stew’s rich, caramelized flavor.

Low and slow wins: Resist turning up the heat—slow cooking is what makes the beef tender.

Add potatoes or parsnips if you want to bulk it up further.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty beef and mushroom stew pairs beautifully with:

Creamy mashed potatoes for soaking up the rich broth.

Buttery egg noodles for a rustic European twist.

Warm crusty bread to mop up every last drop.

A fresh green salad to balance the richness with something light.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, this oven-baked hearty beef and mushroom stew is your answer. With just one pot, simple ingredients, and hands-off oven time, you’ll create a dish that’s as impressive as it is satisfying. Each spoonful delivers tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, savory broth that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. Whether you’re serving it to

 family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe proves that comfort food can be both easy and unforgettable.