When it comes to simple, delicious meals that can feed a family of four or more, stew meat is a kitchen staple. Whether you’re looking for a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs winter dinner or an easy weeknight meal the whole family will love, stew meat provides an ideal base ingredient. In this blog post, we’ll look at some creative recipes made with stew meat to inspire your next family dinner. From classic favorites like beef stew and chili to unique creations such as tacos and stews topped with cheesy potatoes; there’s something flavorful here for everyone! Now that we have our appetite ready let’s dive into what to make with stew meat!
Contents
- 1 What Is Stew Meat?
- 2 Top 10 Recipes To Make With Stew Meat
- 2.1 Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff I
- 2.2 Beef Tips With Bacon & Cheese
- 2.3 Alison’s Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup
- 2.4 Simple Slow-Cooked Korean Beef Soft Tacos
- 2.5 Beef, Mushroom And Guinness® Pie
- 2.6 Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili
- 2.7 Slow Cooker Borscht
- 2.8 Texas Beef Soup
- 2.9 Cowboy Tacos
- 2.10 Big Game Day Chili
- 3 How To Store Stew Meat?
- 4 Conclusion: What To Make With Stew Meat?
- 5 FAQ: Stew Meat
- 5.1 What can I use for stew meat?
- 5.2 What meats can I use for beef stew?
- 5.3 Is stew meat unhealthy?
- 5.4 Is stew meat like steak?
- 5.5 Is stew meat only for stew?
- 5.6 How do you cook stew meat so it’s tender?
- 5.7 Is stew meat good for stir fry?
- 5.8 Can you roast stew meat?
- 5.9 Why is my stew meat tough?
- 5.10 Can you overcook stew meat?
- 5.11 Does beef stew get more tender the longer it cooks?
- 5.12 How long does it take for stew meat to get tender?
- 5.13 Is stew meat the same as sirloin?
- 5.14 Should I brown stew meat first?
What Is Stew Meat?
Stew meat is a cut of beef, usually chuck or round steak, cubed into small pieces. It’s a great way to add flavor and texture to many dishes, as it cooks quickly and its marbling helps maintain moisture throughout the cooking process. Stew meat can be used in recipes such as soups, stews, casseroles, and more. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in the oven, slow-cooked, or even cooked on the stove or in an Instant Pot!

Top 10 Recipes To Make With Stew Meat
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff I
This classic dish is made with stew meat, mushrooms, and onions cooked in a creamy sauce. Serve it over egg noodles for a hearty meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Place the beef, onion, mushrooms, and beef broth in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.
- In a small saucepan melt the butter over medium heat then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Add the flour and whisk together for 1 minute. Slowly add the white wine and beef broth from the slow cooker, whisking continually until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir to combine then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook on high for 30 minutes longer or until thickened.
- Stir in the sour cream and serve over egg noodles.

Beef Tips With Bacon & Cheese
This dish is a combination of stew meat, bacon, and cheese cooked in a flavorful sauce. Serve it over mashed potatoes for a comfort food favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 8 slices bacon, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Add the stew meat and onion to the same skillet and brown for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour into the pan and stir to combine. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce and stir again until everything is well combined. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper then cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the stew meat is tender.
- Remove the lid and stir in the bacon and cheese until melted. Serve over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal that’s sure to please!

Alison’s Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup
This nutritious soup is made with stew meat and lots of vegetables, including tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Serve it up as a tasty lunch or light dinner!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 can tomatoes, diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the vegetables are tender. Serve hot.

Simple Slow-Cooked Korean Beef Soft Tacos
This slow-cooked beef dish takes tacos to the next level with stew meat, Korean spices, and crunchy vegetables. Serve it up with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Place the stew meat, onion, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, chili powder, and ground ginger in a slow cooker. Stir to combine then cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Add the apple cider vinegar and stir to combine.
- Serve in soft tacos with desired toppings such as shredded cabbage, diced radishes, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.

Beef, Mushroom And Guinness® Pie
This delicious dish is a combination of stew meat, mushrooms, and Guinness® beer, all baked up in a flaky pastry crust. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 12 ounces Guinness® beer
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Add the stew meat and onion to the same skillet and brown for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the mushrooms and cook for an additional 4 minutes until they start to soften then stir in the tomato paste, Guinness®, beef broth, and bacon. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
- Prepare a 9-inch pie dish with a single pastry crust. Pour the beef and mushroom mixture into the prepared dish then top with a second layer of pastry.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili
This hearty chili is packed with stew meat, beans, and lots of spices. It’s the perfect dish to warm up your winter nights!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the stew meat is tender.
- Serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, diced green onions, and sour cream.

Slow Cooker Borscht
This delicious borscht is made with stew meat, beets, and lots of vegetables. Serve it up as a light lunch or dinner anytime!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 6 small beets, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, cubed
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups beef broth
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the vegetables are tender. Serve hot with sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Texas Beef Soup
This classic Texas soup is a combination of stew meat, beans, and lots of spices. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Serve with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions.

Cowboy Tacos
These delicious tacos are made with stew meat and lots of spices. They’re sure to be a hit with your family!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
- Place the stew meat and onion in a large skillet over medium heat and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the garlic, sugar, chili powder, and cumin to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes then remove from heat.
- Serve the stew meat mix in warm tacos shells with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.

Big Game Day Chili
This hearty chili is made with stew meat, beans, and many spices. It’s the perfect dish to serve up on the game day!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Serve with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream.

How To Store Stew Meat?
Stew meat is best stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag and kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. If you’re planning on freezing your stew meat, it’s important that you use a vacuum sealer or food saver to ensure the meat stays fresh.
To thaw frozen stew meat, place it in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes or until it’s fully thawed. Once thawed, use the stew meat within 2 days. Stew meat is also great for meal prepping; you can cook it up ahead of time and then freeze it in individual portions for easy use later.
Conclusion: What To Make With Stew Meat?
Now you know what to make with stew meat. There are so many delicious and easy dishes to make with stew meat. From slow-cooked chili to cowboy tacos, there’s something for everyone! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or game day grub, stew meat is sure to satisfy your hungry crowd. Try one (or all!) of these tasty recipes today! Thanks for reading at mollysmtview!
FAQ: Stew Meat
What can I use for stew meat?
Chuck steak is an ideal choice for stew, as this cut from the forequarter of cattle – including parts of the neck, shoulder blade, and upper arm – is both easy to come by and cost-effective. With its flavor profile suited especially well to slow cooking methods such as braising or simmering in gravy stock, it’s sure to make your dish a flavorful success!
What meats can I use for beef stew?
Want to make a satisfying beef stew? Look no further than these delicious cuts—Chuck, bone-in short rib, Bohemian (Bottom Sirloin Flap), Oxtail, fatty brisket (“point” or “second cut”), and cross-cut shanks. Slow-cooked in the hearty flavors of your favorite seasoning and vegetables for hours will yield succulent meat that’s tender even after long cooking!
Is stew meat unhealthy?
For those looking to maintain their nutritional balance, beef stew can be a great option. Packed with protein and vegetables, it is an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients – however, not all versions are created equal! Be mindful of the sodium content in traditional recipes which could add unwanted extra calories.
Is stew meat like steak?
Stew meat is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef, typically taken from the shoulder. Commonly referred to as “chuck,” it can also come in varieties like a roast, top or bottom round steak tips, making it ideal for dishes where tenderness is not as important but great flavor is desired such as hearty stews and braised meats.
Is stew meat only for stew?
Beef stew meat is a great way to get creative in the kitchen without breaking your budget. From enchiladas and beef stroganoff to chili and paprikash – this economical cut of beef can transform into so many delicious dishes for you (and your family) to enjoy! Not sure where to start? Our tried-and-true classic favorite is always going be good ol’ fashioned hearty Beef Stew.
How do you cook stew meat so it’s tender?
To achieve melt-in-your-mouth stew meat, you’ll want to slow-cook it over low heat for several hours using a Dutch oven or a slow cooker. The longer the simmering time, the more tender and flavorful your beef will be!
Is stew meat good for stir fry?
For a tasty twist on traditional beef stew, try this delicious marinade recipe! Glenn’s unique combination of wine and vinegar will not only tenderize the meat to perfection but also infuse it with an unforgettable flavor that can be enjoyed in a sensational stir fry over rice.
Can you roast stew meat?
Stewing meat delivers a succulent experience, especially when you start with the right cut. Whole roasts like round and rump are excellent choices for stews; however, if flavor is your priority we suggest cutting it into pieces yourself to guarantee an unforgettable taste.
Why is my stew meat tough?
Braising can make all the difference when it comes to creating tender and succulent stew meat. To achieve this mouthwatering texture, extend the cooking time in a slow cooker, ensure there’s enough liquid available and carefully monitor your dish – that way you’ll be sure of enjoying soft-as-butter results every single time!
Can you overcook stew meat?
Beef stew can be a delicious meal with the perfect balance of melt-in-your-mouth meat and tender vegetables. However, take caution – if you let your stew simmer too long on the stovetop, it could turn out dry or mushy! With that in mind, aim for 2–3 hours as the ideal time to prepare this hearty dish.
Does beef stew get more tender the longer it cooks?
For the perfect beef stew, simmering it may be your best bet. Overcooking and excessively high temperatures can lead to dryness – cooking meat at lower temperatures preserves moisture which is essential for tender textures. So take your time with that slow-cooked masterpiece!
How long does it take for stew meat to get tender?
Enjoy succulent stew meat without the wait! Bring your beef and ingredients to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer with a lid until tender—about 1½ hours. Stir occasionally, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
Is stew meat the same as sirloin?
Beef stew is a hearty and comforting staple of many households. While the cut might not be noticeable to the untrained eye, it’s important that you use meat appropriate for this type of cooking – enter ‘stew meat.’ This catchall term commonly signifies a variety of cubed or diced cuts such as round, chuck, and sirloin.
Should I brown stew meat first?
For a truly robust and flavorful slow-cooked dish, consider browning your stew meat first. Caramelizing the surface of the meat will enhance its natural flavor – making for an unbeatable meal experience.

Bobby Kelly is a bartender at Molly Magees, an Irish pub in Mountain View. He’s been working there for two years and has developed a following among the regulars. Bobby is known for his friendly demeanor and great drink specials. He loves interacting with customers and making them feel welcome. When he’s not at work, Bobby enjoys spending time with his friends and family.
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