Description
This Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, hearty, and deeply flavorful. Tender beef chunks simmer slowly with classic vegetables in a savory herb-infused broth, then served inside a warm, crusty bread bowl. It’s the perfect cozy dinner for cold evenings, family gatherings, and special occasions where you want comfort food with a rustic touch.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Home cooks craving a filling, restaurant-style meal.
- Families who love comforting, slow-simmered dinners.
- Anyone wanting an impressive yet simple dish for entertaining.
- Fans of classic beef stew looking for a fun and creative twist.
Why It’s Great
✔️ Slow-cooked, tender beef and flavorful vegetables.
✔️ Bread bowls add a fun, rustic presentation and absorb the stew.
✔️ One-pot stew—easy cleanup.
✔️ Perfect for cozy weather, meal prep, and casual parties.
✔️ Customizable with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
For the Beef Stew
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) stewing beef, cubed
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
For the Bread Bowls
- 4 round bread loaves (sourdough or Italian)
- Butter, optional, for brushing
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Ladle for serving
How to Make Beef Stew in a Bread Bowl
Prepare the Beef Stew
- Brown the beef – Season the beef with salt and pepper, then toss with flour to coat. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Cook aromatics – In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Combine all ingredients – Add the beef back into the pot along with carrots, potatoes, celery, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir well.
- Simmer slowly – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the stew thickens.
- Add peas & finish – Stir in frozen peas during the last 10 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and remove the bay leaf.
Prepare the Bread Bowls
- Hollow the loaves – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut a circle from the top of each loaf and remove the bread inside, leaving a sturdy ½-inch shell.
- Optional toast – Brush the inside with melted butter and bake for 5–7 minutes to create a crisp, sturdy bowl.
To Serve
- Fill & enjoy – Ladle hot beef stew into each bread bowl and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Storage
Stew
- Refrigerator: Keeps in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Bread Bowls
Best enjoyed fresh. If stored, keep them in an airtight bag at room temperature for 1 day and re-toast before serving.
FAQ
Q: Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! Add mushrooms, parsnips, green beans, or turnips for variety.
Q: Can this be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
Q: What type of bread works best?
Sourdough, Italian, or any round artisan loaf with a sturdy crust.
Q: How can I thicken the stew more?
Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or mash a few potatoes directly into the stew.
Conclusion
This Beef Stew Served in a Bread Bowl is a warm, filling, and visually impressive dish that transforms classic beef stew into something special. With tender meat, aromatic herbs, and a richly flavored broth all nestled inside a crispy bread bowl, it’s the perfect comfort meal for any season. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
