Irish Beef Stew Recipe

Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Main Courses
Irish Beef Stew

There’s something magical about a bowl of rich, hearty Irish beef stew, especially as St. Patrick’s Day approaches. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, promising a warm, comforting meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. More than just a holiday favorite, this stew embodies the rustic charm of traditional Irish cooking, transforming simple ingredients into something spectacular.

Made with tender beef, hearty root vegetables and a deeply flavorful broth, this healthy recipe for Irish beef stew is slow-simmered to perfection. Every bite is infused with savory notes of garlic, tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, making it the best Irish beef stew recipe for both festive gatherings and cozy nights at home. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a soul-warming dish, this stew is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why This Irish Beef Stew Stands Out

What makes this recipe for Irish stew with beef so special? It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavor.

The slow cooking process allows the beef to become irresistibly tender while letting the vegetables absorb the rich, seasoned broth. Unlike some stews that rely on complicated techniques, this one embraces an easy approach that ensures deep, satisfying flavors without excessive effort.

The combination of browned beef, garlic, Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste creates a broth that’s both savory and slightly tangy. The addition of parsnips and carrots brings a natural sweetness that balances the dish beautifully, while potatoes make it hearty enough to stand on its own. Every element works together to create a stew that’s not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

On a Nutrisystem program? You can count each serving of this recipe as half of a SmartCarb, one PowerFuel and one Vegetable.

How to Make Irish Beef Stew

The key to a great Irish beef stew recipe is patience. Slow simmering allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to make Irish beef stew:

  1. Brown the Beef: Start by searing the stew meat in a bit of olive oil. This helps lock in the juices and adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Next, cook the onions and garlic until fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for the broth.
  3. Build the Broth: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and seasonings. These ingredients combine to create a rich, hearty broth.
  4. Slow Simmer: Let the stew cook on low heat for at least an hour. This allows the beef to become incredibly tender.
  5. Add the Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips and potatoes are added toward the end of cooking to ensure they remain tender but not mushy.
  6. Thicken if Needed: If you prefer a thicker consistency, a corn starch slurry can be stirred in during the final minutes.
  7. Garnish and Serve: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the finished dish.

What to Serve with Irish Beef Stew

A dish this rich and comforting deserves equally satisfying accompaniments. Traditional Irish soda bread is a natural choice, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a heartier meal, serve the stew over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. If you want to add a bit of green to your plate, roasted cabbage or sautéed greens make a great pairing.

Of course, if you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, a pint of Guinness or a sip of Irish whiskey is the perfect way to round out the meal. The deep, malty notes of a good stout enhance the savory flavors of the stew, creating a pairing that’s truly worth toasting. (Learn more about enjoying alcohol on the Nutrisystem program!)

Ways to Customize This Recipe

This classic Irish beef stew recipe is incredibly versatile. While it’s delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to tailor it to your tastes:

  • Prefer a more traditional Irish stew? Swap the beef for lamb for a rich, authentic twist.
  • Looking for extra depth of flavor? A splash of red wine or a dark beer like Guinness can enhance the broth.
  • Want to make it even heartier? Add mushrooms or extra root vegetables like turnips or celery.
  • Need a slow-cooker version? Simply follow the same steps, but cook on low for 6–8 hours for a hands-off approach.

A Perfect Dish for St. Patrick’s Day and Beyond

Whether you’re serving up a festive feast for St. Patrick’s Day or simply looking for a comforting meal to warm you up on a chilly evening, this Irish beef stew recipe is a must-try. Its rich, hearty flavors, combined with its simple preparation, make it a go-to dish for any occasion. So grab a bowl, pair it with your favorite side, and enjoy a taste of Ireland from the comfort of your own home. Sláinte!

Servings: 8

Calories per Serving: 197

On Nutrisystem, Count As: ½ SmartCarb, 1 PowerFuel and 1 Vegetable

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
  • 1 lb. lean beef stew meat
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth, low sodium
  • 3 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp. black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
  • 3 parsnips, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
  • 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. of corn starch (optional)

Directions:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
  3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and softened.
  4. Return the browned beef to the pot.
  5. Pour in low-sodium beef broth, then stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper and bay leaves.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot, and let it cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  7. After an hour, add the carrots, parsnips and potatoes.
  8. Cover and continue simmering for 40–60 minutes, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
  9. If a thicker stew is desired, mix 2 tablespoons of corn starch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.
  10. Remove and discard the bay leaves.
  11. Garnish the stew with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
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