Craving something warm, rustic, and soul-soothing? This Beef & Lentil Stew checks all the boxes.
It’s made with tender beef chunks, earthy lentils, and sweet carrots, all simmered low and slow in a tomato-herb broth that’s packed with bold, savory flavor.
Perfect for cold nights, meal prep, or when you just want a bowl of something that hugs you from the inside. Bonus: It’s all done in cast iron skillet — less mess, more comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb stew beef, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green work best)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and sear them until browned on all sides. (Don’t rush this—flavor is built here!)
Step 2: Add Veggies
Toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until everything smells amazing and the onions are soft.
Step 3: Tomato Time
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to bring out its rich flavor. (This step makes a BIG difference. Trust me.)
Step 4: Simmer It Low & Slow
Pour in the beef broth and add the dried lentils, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover.
Let it simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fall-apart tender and the lentils are perfectly cooked.
Add a splash of water or more broth if the stew gets too thick.
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 50 min
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4–5 hearty bowls
Tips & Swaps
- No beef broth? Use chicken broth + a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This stew freezes like a dream — make a double batch and stash some for later.
- Try it with a slice of crusty bread or naan for serious comfort food energy.
Final Thought
This isn’t just stew. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to cozy up, slow down, and go back for seconds.
Bookmark this one. It’s a keeper.
