If you're searching for a comforting dish that warms both the heart and soul, look no further than Bobby's Beef and Butternut Stew! This savory American classic combines tender beef chuck with the sweet, nutty flavors of butternut squash, creating a symphony of taste that's perfect for chilly evenings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set your kitchen on a flavorful journey that culminates in a hearty meal that serves six. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that's as delicious as it is easy to make? Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this irresistible stew that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Working in batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides, creating a deep golden-brown crust. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add beef broth, ensuring the meat is mostly covered.
- Stir in thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Simmer slowly for
- 5 hours, allowing the beef to become tender.
- Add cubed butternut squash and sliced carrots to the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
- Check meat for tenderness and seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Tips
- Sear for Flavor: Don't skip the browning step! Searing the beef cubes creates a rich, deep flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stew. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate your stew. Opt for seasonal butternut squash and fresh thyme for the best flavor.
- Let it Simmer: Low and slow is the key to tender beef. Allow the stew to simmer for the full
- 5 hours before adding the butternut squash and carrots to ensure the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, always taste your stew. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to suit your preference, and don’t hesitate to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stew rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes for a more flavorful dish.
- Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve your stew with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth. It’s the perfect complement to this hearty meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
