Name: Delicious Beef Stew and Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 stalks celery, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried; 1 bay leaf; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed; 3/4 cup milk

There’s something about a bubbling pot of beef stew that brings instant comfort. Rich with tender chunks of beef, soft root vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s a dish that wraps you up like a cozy blanket. But what really takes this stew to the next level? Fluffy dumplings. Light, pillowy, and soaked with savory juices, they complete this hearty meal in the most satisfying way.

Perfect for chilly nights or lazy Sundays, beef stew and dumplings is a classic that never goes out of style. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the slow simmer that allows all the ingredients to meld into something greater than the sum of their parts.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stew and Dumplings

This recipe is comfort food done right. It fills the house with an irresistible aroma and fills your belly with warmth. It’s also a one-pot wonder, making cleanup easy and the flavors rich. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, this stew keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Plus, the dumplings give you the satisfaction of homemade bread without the wait time of yeast.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, choose a cut like chuck roast or stewing beef. These tougher cuts have the perfect amount of marbling and connective tissue, which break down beautifully during a slow cook, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Avoid lean cuts, as they tend to dry out or become chewy after long cooking times.

Ingredients for the Beef Stew and Dumplings

This recipe calls for a handful of pantry staples and some fresh produce, all coming together in the most flavorful way.

Beef chuck: Essential for richness and tenderness after a slow simmer.

Carrots: They bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.

Celery: Adds an aromatic base and a bit of crunch.

Onion: A flavor builder that sweetens and softens as it cooks.

Garlic: Infuses the stew with depth and warmth.

Tomato paste: Helps build a robust, umami-forward flavor.

Beef broth: The foundation of the stew, full-bodied and rich.

Bay leaf and thyme: Classic herbs that enhance the savory profile.

Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning, but key to balancing the flavors.

All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the stew slightly and to make the dumplings.

Baking powder: Gives the dumplings their rise and fluffiness.

Milk: Makes the dumpling dough tender and soft.

Butter: Adds richness and helps form a tender crumb in the dumplings.

How To Make the Beef Stew and Dumplings

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute.

Step 3: Simmer the Stew

Return the beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth until everything is just covered. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Add the Dumplings

Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the surface of the stew. Cover with a lid and let simmer for 15-20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid—the steam is what cooks the dumplings properly.

How to Serve and Store Beef Stew and Dumplings

This dish serves about 6 hearty portions, making it ideal for family meals or leftovers. Serve hot, straight from the pot, preferably with a ladle of both stew and dumplings in every bowl.

To store leftovers, let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’re freezing it, store the stew without the dumplings for best texture. Make fresh dumplings when reheating.

What to Serve With Beef Stew and Dumplings?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Their silky texture pairs beautifully with the rich gravy of the stew.

Steamed Green Beans

A bright, crisp side to balance out the hearty dish.

Crusty Bread

Perfect for mopping up the stew if you want extra carbs.

Apple Slaw

The tartness and crunch bring a fresh contrast.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Adds a nutty bite and a touch of char that works great alongside.

Buttery Peas

Simple, sweet, and classic.

Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

A light and refreshing pairing to cut through the richness.

Horseradish Cream

A bold, spicy kick for those who like an extra zing.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this comforting bowl of beef stew and dumplings, you might also like these equally satisfying meals:

Try the creamy and hearty Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a meatless option.
Go for a bite of indulgence with Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for dessert.
Add warmth to your weeknight with Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms.
Or try a twist on stew with Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add red wine to the broth? Maybe a sprinkle of fresh parsley? I love hearing how others put their own spin on it. Questions are always welcome—let’s make cooking cozy and easy for everyone.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and hearty dinner recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite go-to.