canned beef stew

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) beef stew
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (if using cornstarch)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the pan. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Canned Beef Stew

Pour both cans of beef stew into the pot. Stir gently to combine with the vegetables and broth.

Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Simmer

Allow the stew to simmer over low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors blend while heating the stew evenly.

Step 5: Add the Peas

Stir in the frozen peas during the final 3 minutes of cooking so they remain bright and tender.

Step 6: Thicken (Optional)

If you’d like a thicker stew, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering stew and cook for 2–3 minutes until the stew thickens.

Step 7: Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the hot beef stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Serve immediately with crusty bread, buttered rolls, biscuits, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Canned Beef Stew

• Choose a high-quality canned beef stew with large chunks of beef for the best results.
• Fresh vegetables add texture and make the meal more filling.
• Avoid boiling vigorously after adding the canned stew to keep the meat tender.
• Add mushrooms, celery, or green beans for extra vegetables.
• A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavor.
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme brighten the finished dish.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Beef Stew

Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Vegetable-Packed Version

Include celery, corn, zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans for a heartier stew.

Creamy Beef Stew

Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or sour cream just before serving for a richer texture.

Slow Cooker Method

Combine all ingredients except the peas in a slow cooker. Cook on Low for 3–4 hours, then stir in the peas during the final 15 minutes.

Storage Instructions

Allow the stew to cool before storing.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave until hot throughout, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty stew with:

• Crusty artisan bread
• Buttermilk biscuits
• Garlic bread
• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed white rice
• Buttered egg noodles
• Roasted vegetables
• Green salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy one-pot meal
• Uses affordable pantry ingredients
• Ready in just 30 minutes
• Hearty and satisfying
• Easy to customize with fresh vegetables
• Great for busy weeknights
• Perfect for meal prep
• Family-friendly comfort food

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg
• Sodium: 980 mg
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Calcium: 6% Daily Value
• Iron: 15% Daily Value
• Potassium: 720 mg