Name: Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 20 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds stew meat (chuck meat); 2 tablespoons flour; 1 large onion; 4 to 5 carrots; 3 cups golden potatoes; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary; 2 teaspoons sea salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic; 2 teaspoons tomato paste; 2 quarts beef stock; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 cup flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 tablespoon butter (room temperature); 1/3 to 1/2 cup milk; Fresh herbs (parsley and chives, optional)

Jump to Recipe

Few things can rival the comfort of a steaming bowl of Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings. This classic dish features tender beef that falls apart with every bite, carrots and potatoes simmered to sweet perfection, and soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up every drop of savory broth. Each spoonful tastes like home, making it the perfect meal for cozy gatherings or chilly evenings when you want something deeply satisfying. If you crave food that hugs you back, Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings absolutely delivers!

Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Every element here works a little magic: from the richness of beef chuck to the earthy punch of rosemary and thyme, each part enhances the color, texture, and hearty flavor of the finished stew.

2 pounds stew meat (chuck meat): Perfectly marbled for a meltingly tender result after a slow simmer.
2 tablespoons flour: Ensures a gently thickened broth that clings lovingly to every bite.
1 large onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to each spoonful.
4 to 5 carrots: Brings color and a natural hint of sugar to the stew.
3 cups golden potatoes: Their creamy flesh holds up beautifully and soaks in all the flavors.
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary: Infuses an aromatic, woodsy backbone that feels so comforting.
2 teaspoons sea salt: Brings all the flavors together, making every ingredient shine.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and complexity without overpowering.
4 cloves garlic: Essential for that deep, savory undertone we crave in stew.
2 teaspoons tomato paste: Offers an umami boost and deepens the broth’s color.
2 quarts beef stock: Rich, robust liquid gold—the heart of any good stew.
2 sprigs fresh thyme: Lends an herby hint and a pop of freshness to balance the richness.
1 cup flour (for dumplings): Forms the fluffy, irresistible topping that makes this dish unforgettable.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the dumplings lightness so they rise beautifully atop the stew.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (for dumplings): Enhances the flavor right in the dough itself.
1 tablespoon butter (room temperature): Makes dumplings irresistible with tender crumb and a hint of richness.
1/3 to 1/2 cup milk: Brings the dumpling batter together gently—add more if needed for ideal stickiness.
Fresh herbs (parsley and chives, optional): For an herbal burst and a pretty garnish that catches every eye.

How to Make Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Meat

Start by seasoning your stew meat generously with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder—this first layer of flavor will shine through to the finished stew. Toss the chuck cubes in flour to help them brown and create a luscious, thick base later. Sear the meat in a heavy-bottomed pot with a touch of butter or oil—don’t crowd the pieces, and let them get a dark, golden crust before setting them aside. This step is essential for building a deep, savory flavor foundation.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a splash more oil if needed and sauté your roughly chopped onion until it’s soft and fragrant—a sure sign your kitchen is about to smell incredible. Next, add the carrots, potatoes, and diced rosemary, then season with sea salt and black pepper. Toss in the crushed garlic and tomato paste as well; these will sweat and caramelize, layering complexity into every bite. Give everything a quick stir to coat it in all those delicious browned bits left behind by the beef.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Begin Stewing

Return the seared beef to the pot, then pour over enough beef stock to generously cover the ingredients. Bring everything to a lively simmer over high heat, then dial it down low, add your sprigs of thyme, and cover the pot. Let the Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings base bubble away gently for about two hours—the slow cook is when those tough cuts transform into something melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter

While your stew works its magic, it’s dumpling time! Chop any fresh parsley or chives you’d like to include for a fragrant, speckled dough. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Scatter in the herbs, then cut in the butter with your fingertips until the mix looks sandy and grainy. Slowly stir in the milk with one hand; you want a sticky batter, not a dry dough, so add more milk as needed. Don’t over-mix—the dumplings should stay light and airy. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rest.

Step 5: Add Dumplings to the Stew

After two hours, fish out the thyme stems from your bubbling stew. Now, with a spoon or simply your hands, scoop up portions of dumpling batter—about golf-ball sized or smaller—and drop them gently onto the surface of the stew. For a crispy top, transfer your uncovered pot to a 350°F (175°C) oven. Prefer pillowy-soft? Simply cover on the stove and let the dumplings steam for around 20 minutes, soaking up all that meaty, herby broth. This is when your Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings starts looking and smelling irresistible.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the dumplings are beautifully puffed and cooked through, your stew is ready for its grand debut. Ladle it into big bowls, garnish with bright parsley, and let the richness of the beef, the sweetness of the veggies, and the light dumplings shine. There’s nothing quite like tucking into Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings—simple, hearty, and full of homemade love.

How to Serve Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings

Garnishes

Fresh, vibrant garnishes make a big impact with this rustic dish. Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the bowl just before serving for a bright burst of color and a dose of fresh flavor that balances the hearty stew. Some people add a crack of black pepper or even a tiny drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of luxury—it’s all about adding that inviting sparkle right before everyone digs into the Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings.

Side Dishes

Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings is certainly hearty enough to serve on its own, but it’s always fun to add a little something on the side. Crusty bread is never out of place here, perfect for sopping up every drop of the delicious broth. Lightly steamed green beans, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or simple roasted vegetables can add extra freshness that balances the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can turn this classic into a dinner-party gem. Try serving the stew in individual mini Dutch ovens or wide, shallow bowls to showcase those golden dumplings on top. For a fun twist, sprinkle each portion with a dusting of smoked paprika or even a few snipped chives. Bread bowls make for a centerpiece worth talking about, letting your guests literally eat the dish—including the crunchy, soup-soaked “bowl” as they go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings left, spoon the cooled stew and dumplings into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen wonderfully overnight, making for an even richer bowl the next day. Just remember—the dumplings may soften a bit as they sit, but they’ll still be delicious and comforting.

Freezing

For long-term storage, the stew base freezes beautifully. Ladle it into freezer-safe containers (without the dumplings, if possible for best texture) and freeze for up to three months. For dumplings, freeze them separately on a tray before transferring to a bag or add freshly made ones when reheating the stew for best results. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings, place the stew in a covered pot over low heat and bring it up to a gentle simmer, adding a splash of beef stock or water if it looks too thick. For the dumplings, if they’ve already been cooked, warm them gently on top of the stew while heating—avoid boiling or over-stirring, as this can make the dumplings dense or mushy. Stew can also be microwaved in short bursts, but the stovetop is best for maintaining texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While chuck is ideal for Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings due to its marbling, cuts like brisket or even stewing steak will work well. Just be sure to simmer for plenty of time, so whichever cut you choose becomes luxuriously tender.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs for the dumplings?

No worries—dried herbs work in a pinch! Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. You can also skip them entirely, but adding even a little parsley or chives gives the dumplings that fresh, green fleck and an uplifting flavor.

How can I make the stew gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap the flour used for tossing the meat and making the dumplings with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Double-check your baking powder, too—most are gluten-free, but always check the label to be sure!

Can I make Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings in a slow cooker?

Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables on the stove, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5. Drop the dumpling batter on top about 30 minutes before you plan to serve, letting them cook through on the high setting with the lid on.

What can I use instead of beef stock?

If you don’t have beef stock, a rich vegetable or chicken stock works in a pinch—add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra depth. Water will do in an emergency, but stock really gives Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings its full, savory punch.

Final Thoughts

This dish shows just how comforting homemade food can be. Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings is a crowd-pleaser with layers of flavor, fork-tender beef, and those crave-worthy dumplings. If you haven’t tried making this classic at home yet, there’s never been a better time. Pull out your favorite pot and let your kitchen fill with the mouthwatering aromas of a stew that’s pure, irresistible comfort. I can’t wait for you to discover how heartwarming this meal truly is!

Tasty Beef Stew and Dumplings Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 21 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Diabetic

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Description

A comforting and hearty recipe for Beef Stew with Dumplings that is perfect for a cozy dinner. Tender beef stewed with vegetables in a rich broth, topped with fluffy herb-infused dumplings.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Meat – Season the stew meat with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Coat with flour and sear in a pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables – Sauté onion, add carrots, potatoes, rosemary, salt, pepper, garlic, and tomato paste.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Begin Stewing – Add seared meat, beef stock, thyme, and simmer for 2 hours.
Step 4: Prepare the Dumpling Batter – Mix flour, baking powder, salt, herbs, butter, and milk to form a sticky dough.
Step 5: Add Dumplings to the Stew – Place spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the stew and cook until done.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy – Garnish with parsley and serve hot.